Germany vs Germany — 1990 vs 1993
| M5 E34 | E 60 AMG W124 6.0 V8 | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 315 hp | 381 hp |
| Torque | 266 lb-ft | 428 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 3,535 cc | 5,956 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 5.9 sec | 5.0 sec |
| Top Speed | 155 mph | 174 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 14.1 sec | 13.2 sec |
| Weight | 3,770 lbs | 3,968 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,761 mm | 2,800 mm |
| Length | 4,720 mm | 4,740 mm |
| Units Produced | 12,254 | 170 |
| Original MSRP | $56,600 | $150,000 |
| Value (Excellent) | $85,000 | $350,000 |
| Collectibility | 8/10 | 9/10 |
| Rarity | 6/10 | 9/10 |
The 1993 Mercedes-Benz E 60 AMG W124 6.0 V8 emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1990 BMW M5 E34 counters with better value, but the numbers favor its rival. Still, both are remarkable machines, and the final choice often comes down to which driving experience speaks to you.
Among Sports Sedan enthusiasts, the matchup between the 1990 BMW M5 E34 and 1993 Mercedes-Benz E 60 AMG W124 6.0 V8 is one for the ages. These Modern classic machines competed directly for buyers' attention and continue to vie for collectors' affections today. The 1993 Mercedes-Benz E 60 AMG W124 6.0 V8 holds a clear advantage in raw power with 381 hp compared to 315 hp, a 66-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the BMW M5 uses a Inline-6 DOHC 24V (S38B36) displacing 3,535 cc, while the Mercedes-Benz E 60 AMG relies on a V8 DOHC 32V with 5,956 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1993 Mercedes-Benz E 60 AMG W124 6.0 V8 edges ahead at 5.0 seconds versus 5.9 seconds. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 170 units built, the 1993 Mercedes-Benz E 60 AMG W124 6.0 V8 is considerably scarcer than the BMW M5's 12,254 examples. On the collector market, the 1993 Mercedes-Benz E 60 AMG W124 6.0 V8 commands a significant premium over the 1990 BMW M5 E34, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.