1997 BMW M3 vs. 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLK
To start off, 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLK is newer by 10 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 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLK (268 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1997 BMW M3. (240 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLK should accelerate faster than 1997 BMW M3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLK weights approximately 305 kg more than 1997 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 CLK (350 Nm) has 114 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW M3. (236 Nm). This means 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW M3. 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLK has automatic transmission and 1997 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 1997 BMW M3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW M3 | 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLK | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | M3 | CLK |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 268 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 236 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 10.7:1 |
| Top Speed | 220 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1605 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1420 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1750 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2720 mm |
