2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK vs. 1997 Porsche Boxster
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Porsche Boxster. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Porsche Boxster would be higher. At 2,480 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Porsche Boxster is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 140 kg more than 1997 Porsche Boxster.
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, 1997 Porsche Boxster (245 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (240 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1997 Porsche Boxster will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK has automatic transmission and 1997 Porsche Boxster has manual transmission. 1997 Porsche Boxster will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK | 1997 Porsche Boxster | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Porsche |
| Model | SLK | Boxster |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1795 cc | 2480 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 201 HP |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 245 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 85.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.7 mm | 72 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1390 kg | 1250 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1780 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2360 mm |
