2008 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK would be higher. At 2,295 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK (190 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 69 more horse power than 2008 Mercedes-Benz C. (121 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 2008 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 230 kg more than 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK.
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, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK (280 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mercedes-Benz C. (270 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mercedes-Benz C.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz C | 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | C | SLK |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2148 cc | 2295 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 121 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 270 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1555 kg | 1325 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4020 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 70 L |
