2006 BMW X3 vs. 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK

To start off, 2006 BMW X3 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK would be higher. At 2,977 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW X3 (228 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (161 HP @ 5300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 BMW X3 weights approximately 70 kg more than 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2006 BMW X3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2006 BMW X3 (300 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 66 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (234 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2006 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK. 2006 BMW X3 has automatic transmission and 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK has manual transmission. 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 BMW X3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2006 BMW X3 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK
Make BMW Mercedes-Benz
Model X3 SLK
Year Released 2006 1999
Body Type SUV Convertible
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2977 cc 1998 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 228 HP 161 HP
Engine RPM 5900 RPM 5300 RPM
Torque 300 Nm 234 Nm
Torque RPM 3500 RPM 2500 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 10.2:1 9.5:1
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type 4WD Rear
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 2 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1360 kg 1290 kg
Vehicle Length 4570 mm 4000 mm
Vehicle Width 1860 mm 1720 mm
Vehicle Height 1680 mm 1280 mm
Wheelbase Size 2800 mm 2410 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 67 L 70 L