2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK vs. 1989 Pontiac Grand Am
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 Pontiac Grand Am. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Pontiac Grand Am would be higher. At 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK (228 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 1989 Pontiac Grand Am. (163 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1989 Pontiac Grand Am.
Because 2007 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 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Pontiac Grand Am, 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, 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK (300 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 63 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Pontiac Grand Am. (237 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Pontiac Grand Am. 1989 Pontiac Grand Am has automatic transmission and 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK has manual transmission. 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1989 Pontiac Grand Am will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK | 1989 Pontiac Grand Am | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Pontiac |
| Model | SLK | Grand Am |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2996 cc | 1996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 237 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 69 L |
