2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK vs. 1988 Porsche 944
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Porsche 944. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Porsche 944 would be higher. At 5,437 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK (349 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 189 more horse power than 1988 Porsche 944. (160 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1988 Porsche 944. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 579 kg more than 1988 Porsche 944. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK (510 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 305 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Porsche 944. (205 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Porsche 944.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK | 1988 Porsche 944 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Porsche |
| Model | SLK | 944 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5437 cc | 2479 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 349 HP | 160 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 510 Nm | 205 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 100 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 78.9 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.4:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1845 kg | 1266 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 66 L |
