1990 BMW 316 vs. 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 23 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 1,800 cc (4 cylinders), 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK (198 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 98 more horse power than 1990 BMW 316. (100 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1990 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 395 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, 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK (310 Nm @ 4350 RPM) has 169 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 BMW 316. (141 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2013 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 | 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 316 | SLK |
| Year Released | 1990 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 1800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 198 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 141 Nm | 310 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 4350 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.3:1 |
| 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 | 1080 kg | 1475 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 4134 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 2006 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1303 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2430 mm |
