2009 BMW M3 vs. 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420
To start off, 2009 BMW M3 is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420 would be higher. At 4,196 cc (8 cylinders), 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW M3 (414 HP @ 8300 RPM) has 183 more horse power than 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420. (231 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420.
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 73 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420. (327 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420. 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420 has automatic transmission and 2009 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 2009 BMW M3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2009 BMW M3 | 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420 | |
Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | M3 | 420 |
Year Released | 2009 | 1986 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3999 cc | 4196 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Horse Power | 414 HP | 231 HP |
Engine RPM | 8300 RPM | 5400 RPM |
Torque | 400 Nm | 327 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 92.1 mm | 92 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 75.2 mm | 78.9 mm |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 5170 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1450 mm | 2010 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1450 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 3080 mm |