2006 BMW X3 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 BMW X3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 BMW X3 would be higher. At 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW X3 (225 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 220 more horse power than 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (5 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 BMW X3 weights approximately 284 kg more than 2012 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 2012 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK (370 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 79 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 BMW X3. (291 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 BMW X3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 BMW X3 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | X3 | SLK |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2012 |
| Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2983 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 225 HP | 5 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 291 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1825 kg | 1541 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4135 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1816 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2431 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 60 L |
