2003 BMW X5 vs. 1997 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2003 BMW X5 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mercedes-Benz SLK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mercedes-Benz SLK would be higher. At 2,993 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 BMW X5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW X5 (227 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 93 more horse power than 1997 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (134 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW X5 should accelerate faster than 1997 Mercedes-Benz SLK. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW X5 weights approximately 800 kg more than 1997 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 X5 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Mercedes-Benz SLK. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 BMW X5 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 X5 (300 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 110 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (190 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 BMW X5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mercedes-Benz SLK.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 BMW X5 | 1997 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | X5 | SLK |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1997 |
| Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2993 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 227 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.1 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 89.6 mm | 78.7 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 10.4:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2070 kg | 1270 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1720 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2410 mm |
