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 |
