2008 BMW M3 vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK
To start off, 2008 BMW M3 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK would be higher. At 5,441 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK (362 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 2008 BMW M3. (338 HP @ 7900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW M3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK weights approximately 157 kg more than 2008 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK (510 Nm) has 145 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW M3. (365 Nm). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW M3 | 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | M3 | CLK |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3246 cc | 5441 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 338 HP | 362 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7900 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 365 Nm | 510 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.1 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1655 kg | 1812 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 62 L |
