2006 Mercedes-Benz CLK vs. 2001 BMW Z3
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLK is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 BMW Z3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 BMW Z3 would be higher. At 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLK (302 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 73 more horse power than 2001 BMW Z3. (229 HP @ 5900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLK should accelerate faster than 2001 BMW Z3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLK weights approximately 380 kg more than 2001 BMW Z3. 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 CLK (461 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 161 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 BMW Z3. (300 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 BMW Z3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLK | 2001 BMW Z3 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | BMW |
| Model | CLK | Z3 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4966 cc | 2990 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 302 HP | 229 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 461 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 89.6 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.2 seconds | 6 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1785 kg | 1405 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 51 L |
