2002 BMW M3 vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz CL
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz CL is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 BMW M3 would be higher. At 5,506 cc (12 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz CL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz CL (493 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 2002 BMW M3. (444 HP @ 7400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz CL should accelerate faster than 2002 BMW M3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz CL weights approximately 785 kg more than 2002 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz CL (800 Nm) has 320 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 BMW M3. (480 Nm). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz CL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 BMW M3 | 2006 Mercedes-Benz CL | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | M3 | CL |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3997 cc | 5506 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 444 HP | 493 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 480 Nm | 800 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1100 kg | 1885 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2890 mm |
