1996 BMW 545 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW 545. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 545 would be higher. At 5,500 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK (415 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 133 more horse power than 1996 BMW 545. (282 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW 545. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW 545 weights approximately 40 kg more than 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK.
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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK (539 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 99 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW 545. (440 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW 545. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK has automatic transmission and 1996 BMW 545 has manual transmission. 1996 BMW 545 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1996 BMW 545 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | 545 | SLK |
Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4398 cc | 5500 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
Horse Power | 282 HP | 415 HP |
Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 6800 RPM |
Torque | 440 Nm | 539 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1650 kg | 1610 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4102 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1793 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1270 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2431 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 70 L |