1974 BMW 3 vs. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 BMW 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 BMW 3 would be higher. At 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 1974 BMW 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 BMW 3 (200 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (190 HP @ 5300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 BMW 3 weights approximately 108 kg more than 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK. 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, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK (280 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 BMW 3. (270 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 BMW 3. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK has automatic transmission and 1974 BMW 3 has manual transmission. 1974 BMW 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1974 BMW 3 | 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | 3 | SLK |
Year Released | 1974 | 1996 |
Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2986 cc | 2295 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 200 HP | 190 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5300 RPM |
Torque | 270 Nm | 280 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 2500 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 8.8:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1433 kg | 1325 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 4020 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1720 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1290 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2410 mm |