1997 BMW M3 vs. 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 BMW M3 would be higher. At 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK (268 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1997 BMW M3. (240 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1997 BMW M3.
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, 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK (510 Nm) has 274 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW M3. (236 Nm). This means 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW M3. 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK has automatic transmission and 1997 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 1997 BMW M3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW M3 | 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | M3 | SLK |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 268 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 236 Nm | 510 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 220 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2440 mm |
