2008 BMW X3 vs. 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 BMW X3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 BMW X3 would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK (298 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 70 more horse power than 2008 BMW X3. (228 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW X3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW X3 weights approximately 225 kg more than 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK.
Because 2008 BMW X3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2013 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 (480 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 110 more torque (in Nm) than 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (370 Nm @ 5250 RPM). This means 2008 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK. 2008 BMW X3 has automatic transmission and 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK has manual transmission. 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 BMW X3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW X3 | 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | X3 | SLK |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2013 |
| Body Type | SUV | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2993 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 6 valves |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 298 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 480 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.0:1 | 12.0 : 1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 210 km/hour | 210 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.9 seconds | 5.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 4-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1765 kg | 1540 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4134 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 2006 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1860 mm | 1303 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2430 mm |
