1998 BMW 320 vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW 320. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 320 would be higher. At 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK (302 HP @ 2700 RPM) has 132 more horse power than 1998 BMW 320. (170 HP @ 6250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 320. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK weights approximately 160 kg more than 1998 BMW 320. 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 250 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 320. (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 320.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 320 | 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 320 | CLK |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2169 cc | 4966 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 460 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 97.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 84 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.3 seconds | 6 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1500 kg | 1660 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 62 L |
