2002 Mercedes-Benz SLK vs. 1973 Subaru R-2
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Subaru R-2. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Subaru R-2 would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SLK (161 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 134 more horse power than 1973 Subaru R-2. (27 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1973 Subaru R-2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 830 kg more than 1973 Subaru R-2. 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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SLK (234 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 194 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Subaru R-2. (40 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Subaru R-2.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Mercedes-Benz SLK | 1973 Subaru R-2 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Subaru |
| Model | SLK | R-2 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1973 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 356 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 161 HP | 27 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 234 Nm | 40 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1290 kg | 460 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 3000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1300 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 1930 mm |
