1997 BMW Z3 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 Z3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 BMW Z3 would be higher. At 3,245 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 BMW Z3 (333 HP @ 7500 RPM) has 105 more horse power than 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (228 HP @ 6100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW Z3 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, 1997 BMW Z3 (355 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (300 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 1997 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW Z3 | 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Z3 | SLK |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3245 cc | 2996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 333 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7500 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 355 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2440 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 70 L |
