1972 BMW 3 vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 39 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 BMW 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 BMW 3 would be higher. At 3,003 cc (6 cylinders), 1972 BMW 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK (201 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 1972 BMW 3. (197 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1972 BMW 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 230 kg more than 1972 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK (310 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 38 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 BMW 3. (272 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 BMW 3. 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK has automatic transmission and 1972 BMW 3 has manual transmission. 1972 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:
| 1972 BMW 3 | 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 3 | SLK |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3003 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 201 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 272 Nm | 310 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Top Speed | 214 km/hour | 243 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.5 seconds | 6.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1270 kg | 1500 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4135 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1816 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2431 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 60 L |
