2001 BMW M3 vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL is newer by 8 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 5,459 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL (382 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 2001 BMW M3. (326 HP @ 7900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL should accelerate faster than 2001 BMW M3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 BMW M3 weights approximately 430 kg more than 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL.
Because 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2001 BMW M3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL will offer significantly more control. 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 CL (530 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 175 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 BMW M3. (355 Nm @ 4900 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 BMW M3. 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL 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. 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 BMW M3 | 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | M3 | CL |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3246 cc | 5459 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 326 HP | 382 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7900 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 355 Nm | 530 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1655 kg | 1225 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 5070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2960 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 8.8 L/100km | 11.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 12.1 L/100km | 9.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 90 L |
