Germany vs Germany — 1986 vs 2005
| 190E 2.5-16 Evolution II | M5 E60 V10 | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 235 hp | 507 hp |
| Torque | 181 lb-ft | 383 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 2,463 cc | 4,999 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 7.1 sec | 4.1 sec |
| Top Speed | 155 mph | 190 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 15.0 sec | 12.3 sec |
| Weight | 2,954 lbs | 3,869 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,665 mm | 2,889 mm |
| Length | 4,480 mm | 4,855 mm |
| Units Produced | 502 | 20,589 |
| Original MSRP | $79,000 | $85,100 |
| Value (Excellent) | $400,000 | $65,000 |
| Collectibility | 9/10 | 8/10 |
| Rarity | 9/10 | 6/10 |
Two outstanding machines, each with compelling strengths. The 1986 Mercedes-Benz 190E 2.5-16 Evolution II excels in lighter weight, greater rarity, stronger collectibility, while the 2005 BMW M5 E60 V10 stands out for more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The best advice? Drive both if you can, then follow your instincts.
Among Sports Sedan enthusiasts, the matchup between the 1986 Mercedes-Benz 190E 2.5-16 Evolution II and 2005 BMW M5 E60 V10 is one for the ages. These Modern classic machines competed directly for buyers' attention and continue to vie for collectors' affections today. The 2005 BMW M5 E60 V10 holds a clear advantage in raw power with 507 hp compared to 235 hp, a 272-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Mercedes-Benz 190E uses a Inline-4 DOHC 16V displacing 2,463 cc, while the BMW M5 relies on a V10 DOHC 40V with 4,999 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 2005 BMW M5 E60 V10 edges ahead at 4.1 seconds versus 7.1 seconds. The Mercedes-Benz 190E carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 915 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 502 units built, the 1986 Mercedes-Benz 190E 2.5-16 Evolution II is considerably scarcer than the BMW M5's 20,589 examples. On the collector market, the 1986 Mercedes-Benz 190E 2.5-16 Evolution II commands a significant premium over the 2005 BMW M5 E60 V10, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.