2009 BMW X3 vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2009 BMW X3 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK would be higher. At 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK (355 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 73 more horse power than 2009 BMW X3. (282 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 2009 BMW X3.
Because 2009 BMW X3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2009 BMW X3 (580 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (500 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW X3 | 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | X3 | SLK |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2004 |
| Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2993 cc | 5439 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 282 HP | 355 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 580 Nm | 500 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 240 km/hour | 245 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.6 seconds | 4.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4580 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2440 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 70 L |
