2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK vs. 1996 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 3,790 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Pontiac Firebird (200 HP) has 39 more horse power than 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (161 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 212 kg more than 2003 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, 1996 Pontiac Firebird (305 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 71 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (234 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1996 Pontiac Firebird 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 | 1996 Pontiac Firebird | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Pontiac |
Model | SLK | Firebird |
Year Released | 2003 | 1996 |
Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1998 cc | 3790 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 161 HP | 200 HP |
Torque | 234 Nm | 305 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 96.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 78.7 mm | 86.4 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 9.4:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1290 kg | 1502 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4020 mm | 4970 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1900 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1330 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2570 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 58 L |