1971 BMW 3 vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 40 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 BMW 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 BMW 3 would be higher. At 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 1971 BMW 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK (182 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 1971 BMW 3. (170 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1971 BMW 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 55 kg more than 1971 BMW 3. 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, 1971 BMW 3 (254 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 4 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (250 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 1971 BMW 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK. 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK has automatic transmission and 1971 BMW 3 has manual transmission. 1971 BMW 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1971 BMW 3 | 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | 3 | SLK |
Year Released | 1971 | 2011 |
Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2986 cc | 1796 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 170 HP | 182 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5250 RPM |
Torque | 254 Nm | 250 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 1800 RPM |
Top Speed | 204 km/hour | 240 km/hour |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.5 seconds | 7 seconds |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1435 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 4135 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1816 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1300 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2431 mm |