2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK vs. 1988 Pontiac Grand Am
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Pontiac Grand Am. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Pontiac Grand Am would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Pontiac Grand Am (163 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (161 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 Pontiac Grand Am should accelerate faster than 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 55 kg more than 1988 Pontiac Grand Am.
Because 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Pontiac Grand Am, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 1988 Pontiac Grand Am (237 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 3 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (234 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1988 Pontiac Grand Am will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK | 1988 Pontiac Grand Am | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Pontiac |
Model | SLK | Grand Am |
Year Released | 2003 | 1988 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1996 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 161 HP | 163 HP |
Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 234 Nm | 237 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 86 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 78.7 mm | 86 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Vehicle Weight | 1290 kg | 1235 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4020 mm | 4520 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1710 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1340 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2630 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 69 L |