1988 BMW 524 vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 BMW 524. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW 524 would be higher. At 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK (355 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 242 more horse power than 1988 BMW 524. (113 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1988 BMW 524. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 185 kg more than 1988 BMW 524. 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK (500 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 290 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW 524. (210 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 BMW 524. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK has automatic transmission and 1988 BMW 524 has manual transmission. 1988 BMW 524 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1988 BMW 524 | 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | 524 | SLK |
Year Released | 1988 | 2004 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2493 cc | 5439 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 113 HP | 355 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5750 RPM |
Torque | 210 Nm | 500 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 22.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1355 kg | 1540 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4090 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1800 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1280 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2440 mm |