2008 BMW 550 vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2008 BMW 550 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK would be higher. At 4,800 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 BMW 550 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 550 (360 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 175 more horse power than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (185 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 550 should accelerate faster than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 320 kg more than 2008 BMW 550.
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, 2008 BMW 550 (489 Nm) has 218 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (271 Nm). This means 2008 BMW 550 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK has automatic transmission and 2008 BMW 550 has manual transmission. 2008 BMW 550 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2008 BMW 550 | 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | 550 | SLK |
Year Released | 2008 | 1998 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4800 cc | 2293 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 360 HP | 185 HP |
Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 4200 RPM |
Torque | 489 Nm | 271 Nm |
Top Speed | 241 km/hour | 225 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1730 kg | 2050 kg |
Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2810 mm |