2004 Mini Cooper vs. 2010 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Mini Cooper. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Mini Cooper would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2010 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SLK (300 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 186 more horse power than 2004 Mini Cooper. (114 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 2004 Mini Cooper. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 380 kg more than 2004 Mini Cooper. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2010 Mercedes-Benz SLK is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2010 Mercedes-Benz SLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Mini Cooper, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SLK (359 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 210 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mini Cooper. (149 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2010 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mini Cooper. 2010 Mercedes-Benz SLK has automatic transmission and 2004 Mini Cooper has manual transmission. 2004 Mini Cooper will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2010 Mercedes-Benz SLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mini Cooper | 2010 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Mini | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Cooper | SLK |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 300 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 149 Nm | 359 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1125 kg | 1505 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3630 mm | 4102 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1788 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1298 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 70 L |
