1996 BMW M3 vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz CL
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CL is newer by 12 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 5,461 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz CL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CL (383 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 1996 BMW M3. (328 HP @ 7400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CL should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW M3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz CL weights approximately 363 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CL (531 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 181 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW M3. (350 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz CL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
1996 BMW M3 | 2008 Mercedes-Benz CL | |
Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | M3 | CL |
Year Released | 1996 | 2008 |
Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3169 cc | 5461 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
Horse Power | 328 HP | 383 HP |
Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 350 Nm | 531 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 2800 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 86.4 mm | 98 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 90.5 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1632 kg | 1995 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 5070 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1880 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2960 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 90 L |