1986 BMW M3 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz G
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz G is newer by 26 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 5,500 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz G is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz G (382 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 185 more horse power than 1986 BMW M3. (197 HP @ 6750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz G should accelerate faster than 1986 BMW M3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz G weights approximately 1380 kg more than 1986 BMW M3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 Mercedes-Benz G is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1986 BMW M3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz G will offer significantly more control. 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 G (530 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 290 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 BMW M3. (240 Nm @ 4750 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz G will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 BMW M3. 2012 Mercedes-Benz G 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. 2012 Mercedes-Benz G will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 BMW M3 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz G | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | M3 | G |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2302 cc | 5500 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 | 530 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4750 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Top Speed | 235 km/hour | 209 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.7 seconds | 5.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1170 kg | 2550 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4686 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1824 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1930 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2850 mm |
