2001 BMW 318 vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2001 BMW 318 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK would be higher. At 2,293 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK (185 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 69 more horse power than 2001 BMW 318. (116 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 2001 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 610 kg more than 2001 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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK (271 Nm) has 91 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 BMW 318. (180 Nm). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 BMW 318. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK has automatic transmission and 2001 BMW 318 has manual transmission. 2001 BMW 318 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2001 BMW 318 | 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | 318 | SLK |
Year Released | 2001 | 1998 |
Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1895 cc | 2293 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 116 HP | 185 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
Torque | 180 Nm | 271 Nm |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1440 kg | 2050 kg |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2810 mm |