1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK vs. 2011 Chevrolet Cruze
To start off, 2011 Chevrolet Cruze is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Chevrolet Cruze (138 HP @ 4900 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (134 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Chevrolet Cruze should accelerate faster than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK.
Because 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Chevrolet Cruze, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2011 Chevrolet Cruze (200 Nm @ 1850 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (190 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2011 Chevrolet Cruze will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK. 2011 Chevrolet Cruze has automatic transmission and 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK has manual transmission. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Chevrolet Cruze will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK | 2011 Chevrolet Cruze | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Chevrolet |
| Model | SLK | Cruze |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1850 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4597 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1796 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1476 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2685 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 L | 59 L |
