1988 BMW M5 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 M5. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW M5 would be higher. At 3,533 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 BMW M5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 BMW M5 (311 HP @ 6900 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 2012 Mercedes-Benz E. (302 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 BMW M5 should accelerate faster than 2012 Mercedes-Benz E. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 178 kg more than 1988 BMW M5.
Because 2012 Mercedes-Benz E is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1988 BMW M5. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz E 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 E (370 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW M5. (360 Nm @ 4750 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 BMW M5. 2012 Mercedes-Benz E has automatic transmission and 1988 BMW M5 has manual transmission. 1988 BMW M5 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 M5 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | M5 | E |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3533 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 311 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6900 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 360 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4750 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1733 kg | 1911 kg |
| Fuel Consumption | 9.4 L/100km | 9.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 18.1 L/100km | 13.8 L/100km |
