2001 Ford Cougar vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Ford Cougar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Ford Cougar would be higher. At 1,999 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 Ford Cougar is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 86 kg more than 2001 Ford Cougar.
Because 2008 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 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Ford Cougar, 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, 2001 Ford Cougar (298 Nm) has 68 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (230 Nm). This means 2001 Ford Cougar will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK has automatic transmission and 2001 Ford Cougar has manual transmission. 2001 Ford Cougar will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Ford Cougar | 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Cougar | SLK |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 1996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 298 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1279 kg | 1365 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2410 mm |
