1959 BMW 700 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 53 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 BMW 700. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 BMW 700 would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK (182 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 144 more horse power than 1959 BMW 700. (38 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1959 BMW 700. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 775 kg more than 1959 BMW 700. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK (250 Nm) has 198 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 BMW 700. (52 Nm). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 BMW 700.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 BMW 700 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 700 | SLK |
| Year Released | 1959 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 697 cc | 1796 cc |
| Horse Power | 38 HP | 182 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 52 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 660 kg | 1435 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3540 mm | 4135 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 1816 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1260 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2130 mm | 2431 mm |
