1997 BMW M3 vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz CL
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CL is newer by 11 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 5,980 cc (12 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz CL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CL (604 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 364 more horse power than 1997 BMW M3. (240 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CL should accelerate faster than 1997 BMW M3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz CL weights approximately 485 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CL (1,001 Nm) has 765 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW M3. (236 Nm). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz CL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW M3. 2008 Mercedes-Benz CL 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. 2008 Mercedes-Benz CL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW M3 | 2008 Mercedes-Benz CL | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | M3 | CL |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 5980 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 604 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 236 Nm | 1001 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 9.0:1 |
| 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 | 1785 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 5000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2960 mm |
