1981 BMW 525 vs. 2002 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 BMW 525. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 BMW 525 would be higher. At 2,495 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 BMW 525 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SLK (161 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 1981 BMW 525. (148 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1981 BMW 525. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 10 kg more than 1981 BMW 525. 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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SLK (234 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 19 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 BMW 525. (215 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 BMW 525.
Compare all specifications:
1981 BMW 525 | 2002 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | 525 | SLK |
Year Released | 1981 | 2002 |
Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2495 cc | 1998 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 148 HP | 161 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5300 RPM |
Torque | 215 Nm | 234 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.6:1 | 9.5:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1280 kg | 1290 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4000 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1720 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1280 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2410 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 70 L |