2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK vs. 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230
To start off, 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230 would be higher. At 2,299 cc (4 cylinders), 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230 (134 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (95 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230 should accelerate faster than 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 130 kg more than 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230.
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, 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230 (205 Nm) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (178 Nm). This means 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230 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 | 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | SLK | 230 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1987 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1697 cc | 2299 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 95 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 178 Nm | 205 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1475 kg | 1345 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 70 L |
