1992 BMW 540 vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1992 BMW 540. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1992 BMW 540 would be higher. At 5,437 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK (574 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 292 more horse power than 1992 BMW 540. (282 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK should accelerate faster than 1992 BMW 540. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK weights approximately 98 kg more than 1992 BMW 540. 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK (800 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 400 more torque (in Nm) than 1992 BMW 540. (400 Nm @ 5100 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1992 BMW 540.
Compare all specifications:
| 1992 BMW 540 | 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 540 | CLK |
| Year Released | 1992 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3980 cc | 5437 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 282 HP | 574 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 800 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5100 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 92 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1650 kg | 1748 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2970 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 92 L |
