2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK vs. 1996 Toyota Corolla
To start off, 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Toyota Corolla. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Toyota Corolla would be higher. At 1,762 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Toyota Corolla is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK (95 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 1996 Toyota Corolla. (74 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1996 Toyota Corolla. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 443 kg more than 1996 Toyota Corolla. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 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 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Toyota Corolla, 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 Mercedes-Benz SLK (178 Nm) has 47 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Toyota Corolla. (131 Nm). This means 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Toyota Corolla. 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK has automatic transmission and 1996 Toyota Corolla has manual transmission. 1996 Toyota Corolla 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 | 1996 Toyota Corolla | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Toyota |
| Model | SLK | Corolla |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1697 cc | 1762 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 95 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 178 Nm | 131 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1475 kg | 1032 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 60 L |
