1998 BMW 323 vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 323 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 98 more horse power than 1998 BMW 323. (170 HP @ 7400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 658 kg more than 1998 BMW 323. 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 104 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 323. (246 Nm). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 323 | 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 323 | SLK |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 268 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 246 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.1 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 74.9 mm | 86 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1547 kg | 2205 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2410 mm |
