1996 BMW 523 vs. 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW 523. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 523 would be higher. At 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK (228 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 58 more horse power than 1996 BMW 523. (170 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW 523.
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, 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK (300 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW 523. (245 Nm @ 3950 RPM). This means 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW 523.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW 523 | 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 523 | SLK |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 2996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2440 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 70 L |
