1998 BMW 318 vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 318 would be higher. At 3,196 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK (215 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 75 more horse power than 1998 BMW 318. (140 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 140 kg more than 1998 BMW 318. 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK (311 Nm) has 131 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 318. (180 Nm). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 318.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 318 | 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 318 | SLK |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1895 cc | 3196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 215 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 311 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.5 mm | 84 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1275 kg | 1415 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4020 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 60 L |
