1996 BMW M3 vs. 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLS
To start off, 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLS is newer by 11 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 6,208 cc, 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLS (508 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 182 more horse power than 1996 BMW M3. (326 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLS should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW M3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLS weights approximately 332 kg more than 1996 BMW M3. 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, 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLS (630 Nm) has 325 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW M3. (305 Nm). This means 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW M3. 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLS has automatic transmission and 1996 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 1996 BMW M3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW M3 | 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLS | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | M3 | CLS |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3001 cc | 6208 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 326 HP | 508 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 630 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.2 mm | 102.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85.9 mm | 94.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 11.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1588 kg | 1920 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1400 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1880 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2860 mm |
