2009 BMW M3 vs. 1988 Mercedes-Benz 190
To start off, 2009 BMW M3 is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Mercedes-Benz 190. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Mercedes-Benz 190 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 283 more horse power than 1988 Mercedes-Benz 190. (131 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1988 Mercedes-Benz 190. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Mercedes-Benz 190 weights approximately 20 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) has 202 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Mercedes-Benz 190. (198 Nm). This means 2009 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Mercedes-Benz 190.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW M3 | 1988 Mercedes-Benz 190 | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | M3 | 190 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3999 cc | 2294 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 414 HP | 131 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8300 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 198 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 12.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1320 kg | 1340 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4620 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1400 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1810 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2670 mm |
