1990 BMW 316 vs. 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 BMW 316 would be higher. At 1,697 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 BMW 316 (100 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (95 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1990 BMW 316 should accelerate faster than 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 395 kg more than 1990 BMW 316.
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, 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK (178 Nm) has 37 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 BMW 316. (141 Nm). This means 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 BMW 316. 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK has automatic transmission and 1990 BMW 316 has manual transmission. 1990 BMW 316 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 BMW 316 | 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 316 | SLK |
| Year Released | 1990 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 1697 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 95 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 141 Nm | 178 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1080 kg | 1475 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 62 L |
