1998 Nissan Skyline vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Nissan Skyline. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Nissan Skyline would be higher. At 2,569 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Nissan Skyline is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Nissan Skyline (271 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 70 more horse power than 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (201 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Nissan Skyline should accelerate faster than 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK.
Because 2012 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 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Nissan Skyline, 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, 1998 Nissan Skyline (367 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 57 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (310 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1998 Nissan Skyline will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK has automatic transmission and 1998 Nissan Skyline has manual transmission. 1998 Nissan Skyline will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Nissan Skyline | 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Nissan | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Skyline | SLK |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2569 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 271 HP | 201 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 367 Nm | 310 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1500 kg | 1500 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 4135 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1816 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2431 mm |
