2003 BMW 325 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 BMW 325. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 BMW 325 would be higher. At 5,500 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK (415 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 223 more horse power than 2003 BMW 325. (192 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 2003 BMW 325. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 130 kg more than 2003 BMW 325. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Let's talk about torque, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK (539 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 294 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 BMW 325. (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 BMW 325. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK has automatic transmission and 2003 BMW 325 has manual transmission. 2003 BMW 325 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 BMW 325 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 325 | SLK |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 5500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 192 HP | 415 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 539 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.1 seconds | 4.5 seconds |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1480 kg | 1610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4102 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1793 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1270 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2431 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 7 L/100km | 8.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 12.3 L/100km | 12.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 70 L |
