1988 BMW 525 vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 BMW 525. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW 525 would be higher. At 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK (268 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 103 more horse power than 1988 BMW 525. (165 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1988 BMW 525. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 477 kg more than 1988 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK (350 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 111 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW 525. (239 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 BMW 525.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 BMW 525 | 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 525 | SLK |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 165 HP | 268 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 239 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 92.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 214 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1575 kg | 2052 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 70 L |
