2003 BMW M3 vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 8 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 3,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 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 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (228 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 13 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, 2003 BMW M3 (300 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 1 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (299 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2003 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 BMW M3 | 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | M3 | SLK |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2993 cc | 3000 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 | 299 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| 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 | 1455 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4102 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1788 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1298 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2431 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 70 L |
