2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK vs. 1989 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 2,827 cc (6 cylinders), 1989 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine.
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 (240 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Pontiac Firebird. (224 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Pontiac Firebird.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK | 1989 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Pontiac |
| Model | SLK | Firebird |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1795 cc | 2827 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 133 HP |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 224 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 88.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.7 mm | 75.9 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1780 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 60 L |
