2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK vs. 1989 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK (268 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 104 more horse power than 1989 Mercedes-Benz S. (164 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1989 Mercedes-Benz S.
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, 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK (510 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 282 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mercedes-Benz S. (228 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mercedes-Benz S. 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK has automatic transmission and 1989 Mercedes-Benz S has manual transmission. 1989 Mercedes-Benz S will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK | 1989 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | SLK | S |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3498 cc | 2599 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 268 HP | 164 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 510 Nm | 228 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 80.3 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2950 mm |
