2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK vs. 1981 BMW M1
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 BMW M1. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 BMW M1 would be higher. At 3,453 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 BMW M1 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 BMW M1 (273 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 81 more horse power than 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (192 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 BMW M1 should accelerate faster than 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 86 kg more than 1981 BMW M1.
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, 1981 BMW M1 (330 Nm) has 59 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (271 Nm). This means 1981 BMW M1 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK | 1981 BMW M1 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | BMW |
| Model | SLK | M1 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2307 cc | 3453 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 192 HP | 273 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 271 Nm | 330 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 91.1 mm | 93.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1386 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4020 mm | 4370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1140 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 116 L |
