2003 BMW M3 vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 BMW M3 would be higher. At 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW M3 (240 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (228 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 278 kg more than 2003 BMW M3.
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, both vehicles can yield 300 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 BMW M3 | 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | M3 | SLK |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2993 cc | 2996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85.8 mm | 82.1 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 11.1:1 |
| Top Speed | 220 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1442 kg | 1720 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 70 L |
