2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK vs. 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280
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 Mercedes-Benz 280. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 would be higher. At 3,196 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK (215 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280. (182 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 weights approximately 60 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 70 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280. (241 Nm). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK | 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | SLK | 280 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3196 cc | 2746 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 182 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 311 Nm | 241 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 90 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1415 kg | 1475 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4020 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 65 L |
