1995 BMW Z3 vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1995 BMW Z3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1995 BMW Z3 would be higher. At 1,894 cc (4 cylinders), 1995 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK (161 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 1995 BMW Z3. (140 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1995 BMW Z3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 90 kg more than 1995 BMW Z3. 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK (241 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 62 more torque (in Nm) than 1995 BMW Z3. (179 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1995 BMW Z3. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK has automatic transmission and 1995 BMW Z3 has manual transmission. 1995 BMW Z3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1995 BMW Z3 | 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Z3 | SLK |
| Year Released | 1995 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1894 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 161 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 179 Nm | 241 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.5 mm | 85 mm |
| Top Speed | 187 km/hour | 226 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1175 kg | 1265 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2440 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 70 L |
