1996 BMW M3 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 M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW M3 would be higher. At 3,246 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW M3 (240 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 73 more horse power than 2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK. (167 HP @ 5750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW M3 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 185 kg more than 1996 BMW M3.
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 M3 (320 Nm) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK. (245 Nm). This means 1996 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK.
Compare all specifications:
1996 BMW M3 | 2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK | |
Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | M3 | CLK |
Year Released | 1996 | 2003 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3246 cc | 1796 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 240 HP | 167 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5750 RPM |
Torque | 320 Nm | 245 Nm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 10.7:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Vehicle Weight | 1480 kg | 1665 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4530 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1750 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2720 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 62 L |