Mercedes CLK 320 CDI Sport - Pictures

Mercedes boot capacity is five litres more than BMW's – but it feels much larger

Mercedes seats fold down and flip up, unlike BMW's

Merc's powerplant concedes 62bhp and 70Nm to BMW's 335d unit

Thanks to its softer suspension set-up, the CLK’s ride is cosseting, but body control could be better on twisting roads. The Mercedes also fidgets more over rough surfaces than the 3-Series

While the steering wheel is on the large side, the cabin is stylish and modern, with the aluminium-effect trim a particularly attractive touch