1988 BMW 530 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz E

To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 BMW 530. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW 530 would be higher. At 4,663 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz E (402 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 214 more horse power than 1988 BMW 530. (188 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1988 BMW 530. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 243 kg more than 1988 BMW 530. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz E (600 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 339 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW 530. (261 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 BMW 530. 2012 Mercedes-Benz E has automatic transmission and 1988 BMW 530 has manual transmission. 1988 BMW 530 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Mercedes-Benz E will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1988 BMW 530 2012 Mercedes-Benz E
Make BMW Mercedes-Benz
Model 530 E
Year Released 1988 2012
Body Type Sedan Convertible
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2986 cc 4663 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 8 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Horse Power 188 HP 402 HP
Engine RPM 5800 RPM 5000 RPM
Torque 261 Nm 600 Nm
Torque RPM 4000 RPM 1600 RPM
Drive Type Rear Rear
Transmission Type Manual 7-speed shiftable automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1593 kg 1836 kg