1986 BMW M5 vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 BMW M5. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 BMW M5 would be higher. At 3,428 cc (6 cylinders), 1986 BMW M5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 BMW M5 (218 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 2004 Mercedes-Benz C. (189 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1986 BMW M5 should accelerate faster than 2004 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 86 kg more than 1986 BMW M5.
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, 1986 BMW M5 (310 Nm) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mercedes-Benz C. (260 Nm). This means 1986 BMW M5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mercedes-Benz C. 1986 BMW M5 has automatic transmission and 2004 Mercedes-Benz C has manual transmission. 2004 Mercedes-Benz C will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1986 BMW M5 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 BMW M5 | 2004 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | M5 | C |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3428 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 218 HP | 189 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 310 Nm | 260 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1519 kg | 1605 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 120 L | 62 L |
