1996 BMW M3 vs. 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 11 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 3,001 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW M3 (326 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 98 more horse power than 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (228 HP @ 6100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2007 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, 1996 BMW M3 (305 Nm) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (300 Nm). This means 1996 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW M3 | 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | M3 | SLK |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3001 cc | 2996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 326 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2440 mm |
