2001 BMW M3 vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK is newer by 7 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 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK weights approximately 5 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 105 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 BMW M3. (355 Nm @ 4900 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 BMW M3. 2008 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. 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 BMW M3 | 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | M3 | CLK |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3246 cc | 4966 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 326 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 355 Nm | 460 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 5.5 seconds | 6 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 | 1655 kg | 1660 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 12.1 L/100km | 11.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 62 L |
