2003 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK would be higher. At 4,266 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S (275 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 85 more horse power than 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (190 HP @ 5300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 550 kg more than 1996 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S (400 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 120 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (280 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK has manual transmission. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Mercedes-Benz S | 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | S | SLK |
Year Released | 2003 | 1996 |
Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4266 cc | 2295 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 275 HP | 190 HP |
Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5300 RPM |
Torque | 400 Nm | 280 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.8:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1875 kg | 1325 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 4020 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1720 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1290 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 3090 mm | 2410 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 88 L | 70 L |