2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK vs. 1996 Mitsubishi Carisma
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mitsubishi Carisma. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mitsubishi Carisma would be higher. At 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK (300 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 185 more horse power than 1996 Mitsubishi Carisma. (115 HP @ 5190 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1996 Mitsubishi Carisma. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 60 kg more than 1996 Mitsubishi Carisma. 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, 1996 Mitsubishi Carisma, 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 (359 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 197 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mitsubishi Carisma. (162 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mitsubishi Carisma. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK has automatic transmission and 1996 Mitsubishi Carisma has manual transmission. 1996 Mitsubishi Carisma will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK | 1996 Mitsubishi Carisma | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mitsubishi |
| Model | SLK | Carisma |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3498 cc | 1834 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 300 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5190 RPM |
| Torque | 359 Nm | 162 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1310 kg | 1250 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4110 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1410 mm |
