2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK vs. 1997 Porsche 911
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Porsche 911. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Porsche 911 would be higher. At 3,600 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Porsche 911 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Porsche 911 (520 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 359 more horse power than 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (161 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Porsche 911 should accelerate faster than 2003 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, 1997 Porsche 911 (685 Nm) has 451 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (234 Nm). This means 1997 Porsche 911 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 | 1997 Porsche 911 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Porsche |
| Model | SLK | 911 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 3600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 161 HP | 520 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 234 Nm | 685 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4020 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2270 mm |
