2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK vs. 1974 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 3,499 cc (8 cylinders), 1974 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK (268 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 70 more horse power than 1974 Mercedes-Benz S. (198 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1974 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 530 kg more than 1974 Mercedes-Benz S. 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 (350 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 64 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Mercedes-Benz S. (286 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK | 1974 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | SLK | S |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1974 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3498 cc | 3499 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 268 HP | 198 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 286 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2205 kg | 1675 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 4970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2870 mm |
