2009 BMW M3 vs. 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2009 BMW M3 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK would be higher. At 3,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW M3 (414 HP @ 8300 RPM) has 319 more horse power than 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (95 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW M3 weights approximately 50 kg more than 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2009 BMW M3 (400 Nm) has 222 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (178 Nm). This means 2009 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK. 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK has automatic transmission and 2009 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 2009 BMW M3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW M3 | 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | M3 | SLK |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3999 cc | 1697 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 414 HP | 95 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8300 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 178 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1525 kg | 1475 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 62 L |
