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 3,246 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW M3 (240 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 79 more horse power than 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (161 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW M3 weights approximately 215 kg more than 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK. 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, 1996 BMW M3 (320 Nm) has 79 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (241 Nm). This means 1996 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK has automatic transmission and 1996 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 1996 BMW M3 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:

1996 BMW M3 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK
Make BMW Mercedes-Benz
Model M3 SLK
Year Released 1996 2004
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3246 cc 1796 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 240 HP 161 HP
Engine RPM 4800 RPM 5500 RPM
Torque 320 Nm 241 Nm
Top Speed 220 km/hour 226 km/hour
Drive Type Rear Rear
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 4 seats 2 seats
Vehicle Weight 1480 kg 1265 kg
Vehicle Length 4440 mm 4090 mm
Vehicle Width 1720 mm 1780 mm
Vehicle Height 1370 mm 1300 mm
Wheelbase Size 2710 mm 2440 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 63 L 70 L


 

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