2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK vs. 2011 BMW 325
To start off, 2011 BMW 325 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK would be higher. At 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 BMW 325 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 BMW 325 (215 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 54 more horse power than 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (161 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW 325 should accelerate faster than 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 BMW 325 weights approximately 385 kg more than 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 BMW 325 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 BMW 325 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, 2011 BMW 325 (250 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (234 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2011 BMW 325 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK | 2011 BMW 325 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | BMW |
| Model | SLK | 325 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 2494 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 161 HP | 215 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 234 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.7 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1290 kg | 1675 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4020 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 63 L |
