2003 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mercedes-Benz E. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mercedes-Benz E would be higher. At 2,685 cc (5 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK (201 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 2003 Mercedes-Benz E. (176 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 2003 Mercedes-Benz E. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 330 kg more than 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK.
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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz E (400 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (310 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK has automatic transmission and 2003 Mercedes-Benz E has manual transmission. 2003 Mercedes-Benz E will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mercedes-Benz E | 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | E | SLK |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2685 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 176 HP | 201 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 310 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Top Speed | 223 km/hour | 243 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.3 seconds | 6.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1830 kg | 1500 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 4135 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1816 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2431 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 60 L |
