2008 Fiat Panda vs. 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2008 Fiat Panda is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK would be higher. At 1,697 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK (95 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 2008 Fiat Panda. (59 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 2008 Fiat Panda. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 615 kg more than 2008 Fiat Panda. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 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 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Fiat Panda, 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, 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK (178 Nm) has 76 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Fiat Panda. (102 Nm). This means 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Fiat Panda. 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK has automatic transmission and 2008 Fiat Panda has manual transmission. 2008 Fiat Panda will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Fiat Panda | 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Fiat | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Panda | SLK |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1242 cc | 1697 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 95 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 102 Nm | 178 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 860 kg | 1475 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 35 L | 62 L |
