2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK would be higher. At 4,700 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz S (429 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 334 more horse power than 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (95 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 675 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz S (699 Nm) has 521 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (178 Nm). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz S 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 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | SLK | S |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1697 cc | 4700 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 95 HP | 429 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 178 Nm | 699 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1475 kg | 2150 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 3165 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 90 L |
