1986 BMW M3 vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 BMW M3 would be higher. At 2,302 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 BMW M3 (197 HP @ 6750 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 2005 Mercedes-Benz E. (148 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1986 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2005 Mercedes-Benz E. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 615 kg more than 1986 BMW M3.
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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz E (340 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 BMW M3. (240 Nm @ 4750 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 BMW M3 | 2005 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | M3 | E |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2302 cc | 2148 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6750 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 340 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4750 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93.4 mm | 88.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 88.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.7 seconds | 10.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1170 kg | 1785 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2970 mm |
