2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK vs. 2001 BMW Z3
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 BMW Z3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 BMW Z3 would be higher. At 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK (355 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 188 more horse power than 2001 BMW Z3. (167 HP @ 6100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 2001 BMW Z3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 154 kg more than 2001 BMW Z3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK (500 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 290 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 BMW Z3. (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 BMW Z3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK | 2001 BMW Z3 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | BMW |
| Model | SLK | Z3 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5439 cc | 2171 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 355 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 500 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Top Speed | 245 km/hour | 220 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 4.9 seconds | 8.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1540 kg | 1386 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 4060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 51 L |
