2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK vs. 2002 Porsche 996
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Porsche 996. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Porsche 996 would be higher. At 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK (355 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 2002 Porsche 996. (317 HP @ 6800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 2002 Porsche 996. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Porsche 996 weights approximately 165 kg more than 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK.
Because 2002 Porsche 996 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Porsche 996 will offer significantly more control. 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 (510 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 140 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Porsche 996. (370 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Porsche 996. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK has automatic transmission and 2002 Porsche 996 has manual transmission. 2002 Porsche 996 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 | 2002 Porsche 996 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Porsche |
| Model | SLK | 996 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 5439 cc | 3596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 355 HP | 317 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Torque | 510 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 97.1 mm | 96 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 82.8 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1240 kg | 1405 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2360 mm |
