2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK vs. 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300
To start off, 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 would be higher. At 2,960 cc (6 cylinders), 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 (188 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 93 more horse power than 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (95 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 should accelerate faster than 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 weights approximately 70 kg more than 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK. 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, 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 (260 Nm) has 82 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (178 Nm). This means 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK | 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | SLK | 300 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1697 cc | 2960 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 95 HP | 188 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 178 Nm | 260 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1475 kg | 1545 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 3080 mm |
