2001 BMW M3 vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 BMW M3 would be higher. At 3,246 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 BMW M3 (326 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 159 more horse power than 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK. (167 HP @ 5750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK weights approximately 10 kg more than 2001 BMW M3.
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, 2001 BMW M3 (355 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 110 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK. (245 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2001 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK. 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK has automatic transmission and 2001 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 2001 BMW M3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2001 BMW M3 | 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK | |
Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | M3 | CLK |
Year Released | 2001 | 2004 |
Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3246 cc | 1795 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 326 HP | 167 HP |
Engine RPM | 7900 RPM | 5750 RPM |
Torque | 355 Nm | 245 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 82 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 85 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 10.7:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1655 kg | 1665 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4530 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1750 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2720 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 62 L |