2008 BMW 316 vs. 1986 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2008 BMW 316 is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 5,547 cc (8 cylinders), 1986 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Mercedes-Benz S (275 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 162 more horse power than 2008 BMW 316. (113 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1986 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 425 kg more than 2008 BMW 316. 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, 1986 Mercedes-Benz S (422 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 246 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW 316. (176 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1986 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW 316. 1986 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 2008 BMW 316 has manual transmission. 2008 BMW 316 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1986 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 316 | 1986 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 316 | S |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1986 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 5547 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 275 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 176 Nm | 422 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1375 kg | 1800 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 5030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2950 mm |
