2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK vs. 1978 Mazda 626
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mazda 626. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mazda 626 would be higher. At 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK (228 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 149 more horse power than 1978 Mazda 626. (79 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 550 kg more than 1978 Mazda 626. 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 (300 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 158 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda 626. (142 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mazda 626. 1978 Mazda 626 has automatic transmission and 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK has manual transmission. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1978 Mazda 626 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK | 1978 Mazda 626 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mazda |
| Model | SLK | 626 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2996 cc | 1970 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 79 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 142 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1720 kg | 1170 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 4310 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2520 mm |
