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 5,437 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK (574 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 257 more horse power than 2001 BMW M3. (317 HP @ 7400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK should accelerate faster than 2001 BMW M3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK weights approximately 198 kg more than 2001 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK (800 Nm) has 470 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 BMW M3. (330 Nm). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 BMW M3. 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 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2926 cc | 5437 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 317 HP | 574 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 800 Nm |
| Top Speed | 249 km/hour | 320 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1550 kg | 1748 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2970 mm |
