2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK vs. 2001 BMW Z3
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK is newer by 7 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 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 BMW Z3 (228 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK. (221 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK weights approximately 200 kg more than 2001 BMW Z3.
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 CLK (510 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 209 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 BMW Z3. (301 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 BMW Z3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK | 2001 BMW Z3 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | BMW |
| Model | CLK | Z3 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2987 cc | 2996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 221 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 510 Nm | 301 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 89.6 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 246 km/hour | 236 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.2 seconds | 6.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1600 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 51 L |
