2004 Rover 45 vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Rover 45. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Rover 45 would be higher. At 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK (228 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 113 more horse power than 2004 Rover 45. (115 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 2004 Rover 45. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 311 kg more than 2004 Rover 45. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 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 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Rover 45, 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK (300 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 162 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Rover 45. (138 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Rover 45. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK has automatic transmission and 2004 Rover 45 has manual transmission. 2004 Rover 45 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Rover 45 | 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Rover | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 45 | SLK |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 2996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 138 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 11.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1135 kg | 1446 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2440 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |
