2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. Both 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK and 1998 Mercedes-Benz S are equipped with a 3,199 cc engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK (349 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 128 more horse power than 1998 Mercedes-Benz S. (221 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1998 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 345 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 (450 Nm) has 135 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz S. (315 Nm). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK | 1998 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | SLK | S |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3199 cc | 3199 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 349 HP | 221 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 450 Nm | 315 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 5.2 seconds | 8.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1461 kg | 1806 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4020 mm | 5160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2830 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 88 L |
