2004 BMW 318 vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK
To start off, 2004 BMW 318 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK would be higher. At 3,199 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK (216 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 75 more horse power than 2004 BMW 318. (141 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK should accelerate faster than 2004 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 BMW 318 weights approximately 315 kg more than 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK.
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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK (311 Nm) has 111 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 BMW 318. (200 Nm). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 BMW 318. 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK has automatic transmission and 2004 BMW 318 has manual transmission. 2004 BMW 318 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 BMW 318 | 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 318 | CLK |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 3199 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 216 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 311 Nm |
| Top Speed | 206 km/hour | 209 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1580 kg | 1265 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 70 L |
