2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK vs. 2012 Chevrolet Cruze
To start off, 2012 Chevrolet Cruze is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK would be higher. At 3,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK (228 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 2012 Chevrolet Cruze. (161 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 2012 Chevrolet Cruze. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Chevrolet Cruze weights approximately 25 kg more than 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK.
Because 2011 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 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Chevrolet Cruze, 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, 2012 Chevrolet Cruze (360 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 61 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (299 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2012 Chevrolet Cruze will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK. 2012 Chevrolet Cruze has automatic transmission and 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK has manual transmission. 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Chevrolet Cruze will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK | 2012 Chevrolet Cruze | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Chevrolet |
| Model | SLK | Cruze |
| Year Released | 2011 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3000 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 161 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 299 Nm | 360 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1455 kg | 1480 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4102 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1788 mm | 1797 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1298 mm | 1476 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2431 mm | 2685 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 59 L |
