2006 BMW M3 vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK
To start off, 2006 BMW M3 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK would be higher. At 4,964 cc, 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK (355 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 2006 BMW M3. (338 HP @ 4900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK should accelerate faster than 2006 BMW M3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK weights approximately 166 kg more than 2006 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 95 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 BMW M3. (365 Nm @ 4900 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 BMW M3. 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK has automatic transmission and 2006 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 2006 BMW M3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 BMW M3 | 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | M3 | CLK |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3246 cc | 4964 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 338 HP | 355 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4900 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 365 Nm | 460 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.1 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1549 kg | 1715 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 70 L |
