1996 BMW M3 vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW M3 would be higher. At 3,199 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK (349 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 1996 BMW M3. (328 HP @ 7400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW M3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW M3 weights approximately 171 kg more than 2004 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK (450 Nm) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW M3. (350 Nm). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW M3 | 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | M3 | SLK |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3169 cc | 3199 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 328 HP | 349 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 450 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1632 kg | 1461 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4020 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 62 L |
