1990 BMW 316 vs. 2013 Mercedes-Benz CLS
To start off, 2013 Mercedes-Benz CLS is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 BMW 316 would be higher. At 4,600 cc (8 cylinders), 2013 Mercedes-Benz CLS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Mercedes-Benz CLS (397 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 297 more horse power than 1990 BMW 316. (100 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Mercedes-Benz CLS should accelerate faster than 1990 BMW 316.
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, 2013 Mercedes-Benz CLS (601 Nm @ 4750 RPM) has 460 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 BMW 316. (141 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2013 Mercedes-Benz CLS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 BMW 316.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 BMW 316 | 2013 Mercedes-Benz CLS | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 316 | CLS |
| Year Released | 1990 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 4600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 397 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 141 Nm | 601 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 4750 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
