2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK vs. 1977 Volvo 260
To start off, 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Volvo 260. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Volvo 260 would be higher. At 3,199 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK (349 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 203 more horse power than 1977 Volvo 260. (146 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1977 Volvo 260. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 145 kg more than 1977 Volvo 260. 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, 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK (450 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 232 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Volvo 260. (218 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Volvo 260. 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK has automatic transmission and 1977 Volvo 260 has manual transmission. 1977 Volvo 260 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK | 1977 Volvo 260 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | SLK | 260 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1977 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3199 cc | 2662 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 349 HP | 146 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 450 Nm | 218 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 73 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1495 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2660 mm |
