2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK vs. 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 would be higher. At 4,196 cc (8 cylinders), 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 (218 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 57 more horse power than 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (161 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 should accelerate faster than 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 185 kg more than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420.
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, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 (329 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 89 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (240 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK | 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | SLK | 420 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1795 cc | 4196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 161 HP | 218 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 329 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 231 km/hour | 212 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.2 seconds | 9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1785 kg | 1600 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 5070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2850 mm |
