1989 BMW 518 vs. 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 BMW 518. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 BMW 518 would be higher. At 5,500 cc (8 cylinders), 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK (409 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 295 more horse power than 1989 BMW 518. (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1989 BMW 518. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 450 kg more than 1989 BMW 518. 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, 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK (540 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 375 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 BMW 518. (165 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 BMW 518.
Compare all specifications:
1989 BMW 518 | 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | 518 | SLK |
Year Released | 1989 | 2013 |
Body Type | Sedan | Roadster |
Engine Position | Front | Middle |
Engine Size | 1766 cc | 5500 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 114 HP | 409 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6800 RPM |
Torque | 165 Nm | 540 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 98 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 81 mm | 90 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 12.6:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | 4-speed manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1160 kg | 1610 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4146 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 2006 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1300 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2430 mm |