1988 BMW M3 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW M3 would be higher. At 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 BMW M3 (192 HP @ 6750 RPM) has 187 more horse power than 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (5 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 245 kg more than 1988 BMW M3.
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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK (370 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 140 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW M3. (230 Nm @ 4750 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 BMW M3. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK has automatic transmission and 1988 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 1988 BMW M3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 BMW M3 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | M3 | SLK |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2302 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 192 HP | 5 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6750 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4750 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1296 kg | 1541 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4135 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1816 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2431 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 58 L | 60 L |
