1986 BMW M5 vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren is newer by 23 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 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren (641 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 423 more horse power than 1986 BMW M5. (218 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren should accelerate faster 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren (821 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 511 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 BMW M5. (310 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 BMW M5.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 BMW M5 | 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | M5 | SLR McLaren |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3428 cc | 5439 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 218 HP | 641 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 310 Nm | 821 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 92 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1270 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 120 L | 80 L |
