2000 BMW Z3 vs. 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2000 BMW Z3 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK would be higher. At 2,979 cc (6 cylinders), 2000 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 BMW Z3 (229 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 68 more horse power than 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (161 HP @ 5300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2000 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 BMW Z3 weights approximately 155 kg more than 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK. 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, 2000 BMW Z3 (300 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 66 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (234 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2000 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 BMW Z3 | 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Z3 | SLK |
| Year Released | 2000 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2979 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 229 HP | 161 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 234 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1445 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 70 L |
