2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK vs. 1999 BMW Z3
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 BMW Z3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 BMW Z3 would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK (161 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1999 BMW Z3. (141 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1999 BMW Z3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 BMW Z3 weights approximately 340 kg more than 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK.
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 Mercedes-Benz SLK (234 Nm) has 54 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 BMW Z3. (180 Nm). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 BMW Z3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK | 1999 BMW Z3 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | BMW |
| Model | SLK | Z3 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1897 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 161 HP | 141 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 234 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1290 kg | 1630 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4020 mm | 4030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 63 L |
