1990 BMW 316 vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 15 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 2,032 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK (160 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 1990 BMW 316. (100 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1990 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 285 kg more than 1990 BMW 316. 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 (230 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 89 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 BMW 316. (141 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 BMW 316.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 BMW 316 | 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 316 | SLK |
| Year Released | 1990 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 2032 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 160 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 141 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1080 kg | 1365 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 70 L |
