1997 BMW M3 vs. 1999 Mercedes-Benz CLK
To start off, 1999 Mercedes-Benz CLK is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 BMW M3 would be higher. At 3,201 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 BMW M3 (240 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 111 more horse power than 1999 Mercedes-Benz CLK. (129 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1999 Mercedes-Benz CLK. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Mercedes-Benz CLK weights approximately 200 kg more than 1997 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, 1997 BMW M3 (236 Nm) has 51 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Mercedes-Benz CLK. (185 Nm). This means 1997 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Mercedes-Benz CLK.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW M3 | 1999 Mercedes-Benz CLK | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | M3 | CLK |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 129 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 236 Nm | 185 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 10.6:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1500 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4570 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2720 mm |
