2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK vs. 1980 Talbot Horizon

To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Talbot Horizon. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Talbot Horizon 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 171 more horse power than 1980 Talbot Horizon. (57 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1980 Talbot Horizon. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 775 kg more than 1980 Talbot Horizon. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2006 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 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 Talbot Horizon, 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK (300 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 209 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Talbot Horizon. (91 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Talbot Horizon.

Compare all specifications:

2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK 1980 Talbot Horizon
Make Mercedes-Benz Talbot
Model SLK Horizon
Year Released 2006 1980
Body Type Convertible Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2996 cc 1118 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Valves per Cylinder 3 valves 2 valves
Horse Power 228 HP 57 HP
Engine RPM 6000 RPM 5600 RPM
Torque 300 Nm 91 Nm
Torque RPM 2500 RPM 3000 RPM
Engine Bore Size 88 mm 74 mm
Engine Stroke Size 82.1 mm 65 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 11.1:1 9.6:1
Fuel Type Gasoline - Premium Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 2 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1720 kg 945 kg
Vehicle Length 4090 mm 3970 mm
Vehicle Width 1790 mm 1690 mm
Vehicle Height 1300 mm 1420 mm
Wheelbase Size 2410 mm 2530 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 70 L 47 L