2008 BMW Z4 vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2008 BMW Z4 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK would be higher. At 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW Z4 (255 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 161 more horse power than 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (94 HP @ 5750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 50 kg more than 2008 BMW Z4.
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 Z4 (299 Nm) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (271 Nm). This means 2008 BMW Z4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK has automatic transmission and 2008 BMW Z4 has manual transmission. 2008 BMW Z4 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW Z4 | 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Z4 | SLK |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2996 cc | 2297 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 255 HP | 94 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 299 Nm | 271 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1435 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4020 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1310 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 88 L |
