2004 BMW X3 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 BMW X3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 BMW X3 would be higher. At 5,500 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK (415 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 190 more horse power than 2004 BMW X3. (225 HP @ 7400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 2004 BMW X3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 BMW X3 weights approximately 215 kg more than 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK.
Because 2004 BMW X3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK (539 Nm) has 249 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 BMW X3. (290 Nm). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 BMW X3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 BMW X3 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | X3 | SLK |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2012 |
| Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2925 cc | 5500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 225 HP | 415 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Torque | 290 Nm | 539 Nm |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1825 kg | 1610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4102 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1793 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1270 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2431 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 9.4 L/100km | 8.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 13.8 L/100km | 12.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 70 L |
