2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK vs. 1978 Buick Century
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Buick Century. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Buick Century would be higher. At 5,000 cc (8 cylinders), 1978 Buick Century is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK (215 HP) has 75 more horse power than 1978 Buick Century. (140 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1978 Buick Century. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Buick Century weights approximately 15 kg more than 2004 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK (311 Nm) has 61 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Buick Century. (250 Nm). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Buick Century.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK | 1978 Buick Century | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Buick |
| Model | SLK | Century |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3196 cc | 5000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 140 HP |
| Torque | 311 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 90 mm | 94.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 88.4 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1415 kg | 1430 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4020 mm | 4990 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2760 mm |
