2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK vs. 1996 Renault Laguna
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Renault Laguna. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Renault Laguna would be higher. At 2,188 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Renault Laguna is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK (161 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 76 more horse power than 1996 Renault Laguna. (85 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1996 Renault Laguna. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Renault Laguna weights approximately 20 kg more than 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK.
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, 1996 Renault Laguna, 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 (240 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 98 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Renault Laguna. (142 Nm @ 2250 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Renault Laguna.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK | 1996 Renault Laguna | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Renault |
| Model | SLK | Laguna |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 2188 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 161 HP | 85 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 142 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1390 kg | 1410 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2680 mm |
