1980 BMW M5 vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz CL
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz CL is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 BMW M5. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 BMW M5 would be higher. At 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz CL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz CL (302 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 84 more horse power than 1980 BMW M5. (218 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz CL should accelerate faster than 1980 BMW M5. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz CL weights approximately 474 kg more than 1980 BMW M5. 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 CL (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 156 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 BMW M5. (304 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz CL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 BMW M5. 2004 Mercedes-Benz CL has automatic transmission and 1980 BMW M5 has manual transmission. 1980 BMW M5 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Mercedes-Benz CL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 BMW M5 | 2004 Mercedes-Benz CL | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | M5 | CL |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3453 cc | 4966 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 218 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 304 Nm | 460 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93.4 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.3:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 228 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.2 seconds | 6.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1391 kg | 1865 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4620 mm | 4920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 99 L |
