2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK vs. 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 would be higher. At 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 (231 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (228 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 should accelerate faster than 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK.
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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK (300 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300. (273 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300. 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 has automatic transmission and 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK has manual transmission. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK | 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | SLK | 300 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2996 cc | 2962 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 231 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 273 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.7:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4110 mm | 4750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2810 mm |
