2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK vs. 1983 Pontiac Phoenix
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Pontiac Phoenix. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Pontiac Phoenix would be higher. At 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK (355 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 265 more horse power than 1983 Pontiac Phoenix. (90 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1983 Pontiac Phoenix. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 440 kg more than 1983 Pontiac Phoenix. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 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 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1983 Pontiac Phoenix, 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK (510 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 329 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Pontiac Phoenix. (181 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Pontiac Phoenix.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK | 1983 Pontiac Phoenix | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Pontiac |
| Model | SLK | Phoenix |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1983 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5439 cc | 2474 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 355 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 510 Nm | 181 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 101.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 76.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 8.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1540 kg | 1100 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 4660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2670 mm |
