2009 BMW M3 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2009 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2009 BMW M3 would be higher. At 3,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW M3 (414 HP @ 8300 RPM) has 109 more horse power than 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS. (305 HP @ 3500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS.
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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS (370 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 BMW M3. (295 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 BMW M3. 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS has automatic transmission and 2009 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 2009 BMW M3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2009 BMW M3 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS | |
Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | M3 | CLS |
Year Released | 2009 | 2012 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3999 cc | 3498 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 414 HP | 305 HP |
Engine RPM | 8300 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Torque | 295 Nm | 370 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 12.0:1 | 12.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Top Speed | 249 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4940 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1882 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1417 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2875 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 80 L |