2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK vs. 1989 Volkswagen Corrado
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 Volkswagen Corrado. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Volkswagen Corrado would be higher. At 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK (355 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 197 more horse power than 1989 Volkswagen Corrado. (158 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1989 Volkswagen Corrado. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 125 kg more than 1989 Volkswagen Corrado. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 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 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Volkswagen Corrado, 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK (510 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 285 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Volkswagen Corrado. (225 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Volkswagen Corrado.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK | 1989 Volkswagen Corrado | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | SLK | Corrado |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5439 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 355 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 510 Nm | 225 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1240 kg | 1115 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4110 mm | 4060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2480 mm |
