1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK vs. 1969 Volvo 120
To start off, 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1969 Volvo 120. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1969 Volvo 120 would be higher. At 3,199 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK (215 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 109 more horse power than 1969 Volvo 120. (106 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1969 Volvo 120. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 300 kg more than 1969 Volvo 120. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK (316 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 149 more torque (in Nm) than 1969 Volvo 120. (167 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1969 Volvo 120.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK | 1969 Volvo 120 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | SLK | 120 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1969 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3199 cc | 1986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 106 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 316 Nm | 167 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 88.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 80 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1330 kg | 1030 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 45 L |
