2002 BMW M3 vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS is newer by 6 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 5,461 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS (382 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 2002 BMW M3. (338 HP @ 7400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS should accelerate faster than 2002 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 CLS (531 Nm) has 176 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 BMW M3. (355 Nm). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 BMW M3 | 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | M3 | CLS |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3246 cc | 5461 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 338 HP | 382 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 355 Nm | 531 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4910 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 80 L |
