2002 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 5,500 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK (415 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 113 more horse power than 2002 Mercedes-Benz S. (302 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 2002 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 390 kg more than 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK.
Because 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will offer significantly more control. 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 SLK (539 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 79 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Mercedes-Benz S. (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Mercedes-Benz S | 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | S | SLK |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4966 cc | 5500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 302 HP | 415 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Torque | 460 Nm | 539 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.5 seconds | 4.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2000 kg | 1610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5170 mm | 4102 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1793 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1270 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3090 mm | 2431 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 88 L | 70 L |
