2008 BMW X3 vs. 2002 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2008 BMW X3 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Mercedes-Benz SLK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Mercedes-Benz SLK would be higher. At 2,979 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW X3 (228 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 2002 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (161 HP @ 5300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 2002 Mercedes-Benz SLK. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW X3 weights approximately 814 kg more than 2002 Mercedes-Benz SLK. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 BMW X3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2002 Mercedes-Benz SLK. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 BMW X3 (300 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 66 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (234 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2008 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Mercedes-Benz SLK.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW X3 | 2002 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | X3 | SLK |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2002 |
| Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2979 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 | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2104 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1880 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 70 L |
