2003 BMW X3 vs. 2010 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 BMW X3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 BMW X3 would be higher. At 2,995 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW X3 (201 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 2010 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (182 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 2010 Mercedes-Benz SLK. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW X3 weights approximately 495 kg more than 2010 Mercedes-Benz SLK. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 BMW X3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2010 Mercedes-Benz SLK. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 BMW X3 will offer significantly more control. 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 X3 (410 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 160 more torque (in Nm) than 2010 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (250 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2003 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2010 Mercedes-Benz SLK.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 BMW X3 | 2010 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | X3 | SLK |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2010 |
| Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2995 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 182 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 410 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Top Speed | 215 km/hour | 240 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.2 seconds | 7 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1930 kg | 1435 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4135 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1816 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2431 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 60 L |
