1990 BMW M3 vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 BMW M3 would be higher. At 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK (268 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1990 BMW M3. (238 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1990 BMW M3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 585 kg more than 1990 BMW M3. 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK (510 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 270 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 BMW M3. (240 Nm @ 4750 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 BMW M3. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK has automatic transmission and 1990 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 1990 BMW M3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 BMW M3 | 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | M3 | SLK |
| Year Released | 1990 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2467 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 238 HP | 268 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 510 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.1 mm | 97.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 87 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.5 seconds | 4.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1200 kg | 1785 kg |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2440 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 7.8 L/100km | 9.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.8 L/100km | 12 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 70 L |
