1996 BMW Z3 vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW Z3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW Z3 would be higher. At 2,987 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK (221 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1996 BMW Z3. (201 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW Z3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK weights approximately 475 kg more than 1996 BMW Z3. 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK (510 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 235 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW Z3. (275 Nm @ 3950 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW Z3. 1996 BMW Z3 has automatic transmission and 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK has manual transmission. 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 BMW Z3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW Z3 | 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Z3 | CLK |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2926 cc | 2987 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 221 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 275 Nm | 510 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 1400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 94 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 17.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 217 km/hour | 246 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1255 kg | 1730 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2830 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 62 L |
