1986 BMW M3 vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS is newer by 22 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 5,461 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS (382 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 185 more horse power than 1986 BMW M3. (197 HP @ 6750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS should accelerate faster 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS (531 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 291 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 BMW M3. (240 Nm @ 4750 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 BMW M3. 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS has automatic transmission and 1986 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 1986 BMW M3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1986 BMW M3 | 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS | |
Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | M3 | CLS |
Year Released | 1986 | 2008 |
Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2302 cc | 5461 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 197 HP | 382 HP |
Engine RPM | 6750 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 240 Nm | 531 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4750 RPM | 2800 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4910 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1880 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1400 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2860 mm |