2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK vs. 1991 Mercedes-Benz 400
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Mercedes-Benz 400. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Mercedes-Benz 400 would be higher. At 4,196 cc (8 cylinders), 1991 Mercedes-Benz 400 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Mercedes-Benz 400 (287 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 126 more horse power than 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (161 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1991 Mercedes-Benz 400 should accelerate faster than 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Mercedes-Benz 400 weights approximately 610 kg more than 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK. 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, 1991 Mercedes-Benz 400 (410 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 170 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (240 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1991 Mercedes-Benz 400 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK | 1991 Mercedes-Benz 400 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | SLK | 400 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1991 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 4196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 161 HP | 287 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 410 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.1 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 78.9 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1390 kg | 2000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 5110 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 3050 mm |
