1992 BMW M3 vs. 2010 Mercedes-Benz CLS
To start off, 2010 Mercedes-Benz CLS is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1992 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1992 BMW M3 would be higher. At 5,500 cc (8 cylinders), 2010 Mercedes-Benz CLS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Mercedes-Benz CLS (382 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 100 more horse power than 1992 BMW M3. (282 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Mercedes-Benz CLS should accelerate faster than 1992 BMW M3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Mercedes-Benz CLS weights approximately 370 kg more than 1992 BMW M3. 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, 2010 Mercedes-Benz CLS (530 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 210 more torque (in Nm) than 1992 BMW M3. (320 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2010 Mercedes-Benz CLS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1992 BMW M3. 2010 Mercedes-Benz CLS has automatic transmission and 1992 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 1992 BMW M3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2010 Mercedes-Benz CLS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1992 BMW M3 | 2010 Mercedes-Benz CLS | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | M3 | CLS |
| Year Released | 1992 | 2010 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2990 cc | 5500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 282 HP | 382 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 530 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1465 kg | 1835 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4917 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1872 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1415 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2855 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 80 L |
