1973 Ford Fairlane vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Ford Fairlane. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Ford Fairlane would be higher. At 4,097 cc (6 cylinders), 1973 Ford Fairlane is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK (268 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 118 more horse power than 1973 Ford Fairlane. (150 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1973 Ford Fairlane.
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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK (350 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Ford Fairlane. (339 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Ford Fairlane.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Ford Fairlane | 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Fairlane | SLK |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4097 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 268 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 339 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 5060 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2440 mm |
