1996 BMW 535 vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW 535. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 535 would be higher. At 3,498 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 BMW 535 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW 535 (235 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 68 more horse power than 2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK. (167 HP @ 5750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW 535 should accelerate faster than 2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK weights approximately 55 kg more than 1996 BMW 535.
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, 1996 BMW 535 (320 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK. (245 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1996 BMW 535 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK. 2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK has automatic transmission and 1996 BMW 535 has manual transmission. 1996 BMW 535 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1996 BMW 535 | 2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK | |
Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | 535 | CLK |
Year Released | 1996 | 2003 |
Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3498 cc | 1796 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 235 HP | 167 HP |
Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5750 RPM |
Torque | 320 Nm | 245 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 82 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 78.9 mm | 85 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.7:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1610 kg | 1665 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4530 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1750 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2720 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 62 L |