1986 BMW 316 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 BMW 316 would be higher. At 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL (228 HP) has 142 more horse power than 1986 BMW 316. (86 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1986 BMW 316.
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 SL (300 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 177 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 BMW 316. (123 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 BMW 316.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 BMW 316 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 316 | SL |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1573 cc | 2996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 86 HP | 228 HP |
| Torque | 123 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 4582 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1298 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2560 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 80 L |
