1996 BMW 725 vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW 725. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 725 would be higher. At 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK (228 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 87 more horse power than 1996 BMW 725. (141 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW 725.
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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK (300 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW 725. (280 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW 725.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW 725 | 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 725 | SLK |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2498 cc | 2996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 22.0:1 | 10.7:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 5130 mm | 4110 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2940 mm | 2440 mm |
