Mercedes-AMG Hammer

vs

BMW M5

Germany vs Germany — 1986 vs 1988

Mercedes-AMG Hammer (1986)
BMW M5 (1988)
Specifications
Hammer 6.0 Wide BodyM5 E34
Horsepower385 hp315 hp
Torque266 lb-ft
Engine Size5,953 cc3,535 cc
0-60 mph5.9 sec
Top Speed155 mph
¼ Mile14.0 sec
Weight3,638 lbs
Wheelbase2,800 mm2,761 mm
Length4,740 mm4,720 mm
Units Produced3012,254
Original MSRP$56,600
Value (Excellent)$500,000$80,000
Collectibility5/108/10
Rarity10/106/10
The Verdict

This matchup is remarkably close. The 1986 Mercedes-AMG Hammer 6.0 Wide Body offers more power, greater rarity, while the 1988 BMW M5 E34 counters with stronger collectibility, better value. Neither holds a decisive advantage, making this a true enthusiast's dilemma. Your choice ultimately depends on which driving philosophy resonates more with you.

Overview

The 1986 Mercedes-AMG Hammer 6.0 Wide Body and 1988 BMW M5 E34 stand as two of the most notable Sports Sedan cars from Modern classic. Both emerged during a period of intense competition, and choosing between them remains a passionate debate among collectors. The 1986 Mercedes-AMG Hammer 6.0 Wide Body holds a clear advantage in raw power with 385 hp compared to 315 hp, a 70-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Mercedes-AMG Hammer uses a V8 displacing 5,953 cc, while the BMW M5 relies on a Inline-6 DOHC 24V with 3,535 cc. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 30 units built, the 1986 Mercedes-AMG Hammer 6.0 Wide Body is considerably scarcer than the BMW M5's 12,254 examples. On the collector market, the 1986 Mercedes-AMG Hammer 6.0 Wide Body commands a significant premium over the 1988 BMW M5 E34, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1988 BMW M5 E34 rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.