1998 BMW 323 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 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 323 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 @ 5600 RPM) has 133 more horse power than 1998 BMW 323. (169 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK weights approximately 1400 kg more than 1998 BMW 323. 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 (461 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 216 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 323. (245 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 323. 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK has automatic transmission and 1998 BMW 323 has manual transmission. 1998 BMW 323 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 323 | 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 323 | CLK |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 4966 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 169 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 461 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 84 mm |
| Top Speed | 233 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8 seconds | 6.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1430 kg | 2830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1420 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1750 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 62 L |
