2008 Mercedes-Benz B vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz B is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK (134 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 2008 Mercedes-Benz B. (94 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 2008 Mercedes-Benz B. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz B weights approximately 32 kg more than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK.
Because 1998 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 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz B, 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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK (190 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mercedes-Benz B. (140 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mercedes-Benz B.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz B | 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | B | SLK |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1498 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 94 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 69.2 mm | 78.7 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.4:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 174 km/hour | 231 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1302 kg | 1270 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4280 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2780 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 75 L |
