1991 BMW M12 vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL is newer by 18 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 5,461 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL (377 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 81 more horse power than 1991 BMW M12. (296 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL should accelerate faster than 1991 BMW M12.
Because 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL 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 59 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL. (391 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 1991 BMW M12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL. 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL 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. 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 BMW M12 | 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | M12 | CL |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 4988 cc | 5461 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 296 HP | 377 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 450 Nm | 391 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4100 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 10.7:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 5070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2000 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1110 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2960 mm |
