1991 BMW M12 vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 BMW M12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 BMW M12 would be higher. At 4,988 cc (12 cylinders), 1991 BMW M12 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK (302 HP @ 2700 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 1991 BMW M12. (296 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK should accelerate faster than 1991 BMW M12.
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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 BMW M12. (450 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 BMW M12. 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK has automatic transmission and 1991 BMW M12 has manual transmission. 1991 BMW M12 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 BMW M12 | 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | M12 | CLK |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 4988 cc | 4964 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 296 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Torque | 450 Nm | 460 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4100 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2000 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1110 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2720 mm |
