2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK vs. 2004 Panoz Esperante
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Panoz Esperante. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Panoz Esperante would be higher. At 4,601 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Panoz Esperante is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 135 kg more than 2004 Panoz Esperante.
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, 2004 Panoz Esperante (426 Nm @ 4750 RPM) has 116 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (310 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2004 Panoz Esperante 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 2004 Panoz Esperante has manual transmission. 2004 Panoz Esperante 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 | 2004 Panoz Esperante | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Panoz |
| Model | SLK | Esperante |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3199 cc | 4601 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 317 HP |
| Torque | 310 Nm | 426 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 90 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 90 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 | 1405 kg | 1270 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2660 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 59 L |
