1996 BMW Z3 vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW Z3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW Z3 would be higher. At 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK (268 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 127 more horse power than 1996 BMW Z3. (141 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW Z3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 575 kg more than 1996 BMW Z3. 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK (350 Nm) has 170 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW Z3. (180 Nm). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW Z3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW Z3 | 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Z3 | SLK |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1897 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 268 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1630 kg | 2205 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 70 L |
