2009 BMW M3 vs. 1985 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2009 BMW M3 is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 3,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW M3 (414 HP @ 8300 RPM) has 260 more horse power than 1985 Mercedes-Benz S. (154 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1985 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 30 kg more than 2009 BMW M3.
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, 2009 BMW M3 (400 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 176 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Mercedes-Benz S. (224 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW M3 | 1985 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | M3 | S |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3999 cc | 2746 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 414 HP | 154 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8300 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 224 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1530 kg | 1560 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 5030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1450 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2950 mm |
