1996 BMW M3 vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 9 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 3,491 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW M3 (328 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (269 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW M3 weights approximately 227 kg more than 2005 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, both vehicles can yield 350 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW M3 | 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | M3 | SLK |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3169 cc | 3491 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 328 HP | 269 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.4 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 10.7:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1632 kg | 1405 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2440 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 70 L |
