2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK vs. 1972 Oldsmobile Cutlass
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Oldsmobile Cutlass. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Oldsmobile Cutlass would be higher. At 5,736 cc (8 cylinders), 1972 Oldsmobile Cutlass is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK (268 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 108 more horse power than 1972 Oldsmobile Cutlass. (160 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1972 Oldsmobile Cutlass. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 175 kg more than 1972 Oldsmobile Cutlass. 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK (510 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 130 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Oldsmobile Cutlass. (380 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Oldsmobile Cutlass.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK | 1972 Oldsmobile Cutlass | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Oldsmobile |
| Model | SLK | Cutlass |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3498 cc | 5736 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 268 HP | 160 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 510 Nm | 380 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1785 kg | 1610 kg |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2960 mm |
