2006 BMW M5 vs. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230
To start off, 2006 BMW M5 is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 would be higher. At 4,998 cc (10 cylinders), 2006 BMW M5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW M5 (500 HP) has 366 more horse power than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230. (134 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW M5 should accelerate faster than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 BMW M5 weights approximately 395 kg more than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 BMW M5 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 BMW M5 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, 2006 BMW M5 (519 Nm @ 6100 RPM) has 314 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230. (205 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2006 BMW M5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 BMW M5 | 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | M5 | 230 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4998 cc | 2298 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 10 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 500 HP | 134 HP |
| Torque | 519 Nm | 205 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 6100 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 12.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 245 km/hour | 180 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 4.7 seconds | 11.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1755 kg | 1360 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 13.1 L/100km | 10.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 19.6 L/100km | 12.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 16.8 L/100km | 8.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 65 L |
