1988 BMW 520 vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW 520 would be higher. At 2,293 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK (185 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 1988 BMW 520. (129 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1988 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 480 kg more than 1988 BMW 520. 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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK (271 Nm) has 97 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW 520. (174 Nm). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 BMW 520.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 BMW 520 | 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 520 | SLK |
| Year Released | 1988 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1989 cc | 2293 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 129 HP | 185 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 174 Nm | 271 Nm |
| Top Speed | 202 km/hour | 225 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1570 kg | 2050 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2810 mm |
