2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK vs. 2002 Pontiac Vibe
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Pontiac Vibe. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Pontiac Vibe 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 207 more horse power than 2002 Pontiac Vibe. (148 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 2002 Pontiac Vibe. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Pontiac Vibe weights approximately 107 kg more than 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK.
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, 2002 Pontiac Vibe, 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) has 335 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Pontiac Vibe. (175 Nm). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Pontiac Vibe. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK has automatic transmission and 2002 Pontiac Vibe has manual transmission. 2002 Pontiac Vibe 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 | 2002 Pontiac Vibe | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Pontiac |
| Model | SLK | Vibe |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5439 cc | 1800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 355 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 510 Nm | 175 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1240 kg | 1347 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4110 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 76 L |
