1991 BMW M12 vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 BMW M12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 BMW M12 would be higher. At 4,988 cc (12 cylinders), 1991 BMW M12 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 BMW M12 (296 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 2005 Mercedes-Benz S. (275 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1991 BMW M12 should accelerate faster than 2005 Mercedes-Benz S.
Because 2005 Mercedes-Benz S is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1991 BMW M12. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz S 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, 1991 BMW M12 (450 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 49 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mercedes-Benz S. (401 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1991 BMW M12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mercedes-Benz S. 2005 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 1991 BMW M12 has manual transmission. 1991 BMW M12 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 BMW M12 | 2005 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | M12 | S |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 4988 cc | 4266 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 296 HP | 275 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 450 Nm | 401 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4100 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 84 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 5050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2000 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1110 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2850 mm |
