1998 BMW Z3 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 Z3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW Z3 would be higher. At 3,201 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 BMW Z3 (240 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK. (228 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW Z3 weights approximately 70 kg more than 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK. 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, 1998 BMW Z3 (320 Nm) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK. (300 Nm). This means 1998 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK. 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK has automatic transmission and 1998 BMW Z3 has manual transmission. 1998 BMW Z3 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 Z3 | 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Z3 | CLK |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 2996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 11.1:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1395 kg | 1325 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2720 mm |
