2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK vs. 2009 Hyundai Elantra
To start off, 2009 Hyundai Elantra is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK (161 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 2009 Hyundai Elantra. (141 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 2009 Hyundai Elantra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 232 kg more than 2009 Hyundai Elantra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2009 Hyundai Elantra, 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK (234 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 48 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Hyundai Elantra. (186 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Hyundai Elantra. 2009 Hyundai Elantra has automatic transmission and 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK has manual transmission. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Hyundai Elantra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK | 2009 Hyundai Elantra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Hyundai |
| Model | SLK | Elantra |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1975 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 161 HP | 141 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 234 Nm | 186 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.7 mm | 93.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1290 kg | 1058 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4020 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
