2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK vs. 1984 Holden Commodore

To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Holden Commodore. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Holden Commodore would be higher. At 3,298 cc (6 cylinders), 1984 Holden Commodore is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK (228 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 113 more horse power than 1984 Holden Commodore. (115 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1984 Holden Commodore. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 226 kg more than 1984 Holden Commodore. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK (300 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 68 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Holden Commodore. (232 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Holden Commodore. 1984 Holden Commodore has automatic transmission and 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK has manual transmission. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1984 Holden Commodore will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK 1984 Holden Commodore
Make Mercedes-Benz Holden
Model SLK Commodore
Year Released 2008 1984
Body Type Convertible Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2996 cc 3298 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 228 HP 115 HP
Engine RPM 6000 RPM 4200 RPM
Torque 300 Nm 232 Nm
Torque RPM 2500 RPM 2600 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline - Premium Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Rear
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 2 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1446 kg 1220 kg
Vehicle Length 4090 mm 4720 mm
Vehicle Width 1790 mm 1730 mm
Vehicle Height 1300 mm 1390 mm
Wheelbase Size 2440 mm 2680 mm