2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK vs. 1958 Porsche 356
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 46 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1958 Porsche 356. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1958 Porsche 356 would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK (161 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 91 more horse power than 1958 Porsche 356. (70 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1958 Porsche 356. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 505 kg more than 1958 Porsche 356. 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. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK has automatic transmission and 1958 Porsche 356 has manual transmission. 1958 Porsche 356 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK | 1958 Porsche 356 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Porsche |
| Model | SLK | 356 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1958 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1487 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 161 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1265 kg | 760 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2110 mm |
