Germany vs Germany — 1986 vs 1986
| 560 SEC W126 | M635CSi E24 | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 300 hp | 286 hp |
| Torque | 336 lb-ft | 251 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 5,547 cc | 3,453 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 6.3 sec | 6.1 sec |
| Top Speed | 155 mph | 158 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 14.6 sec | 14.4 sec |
| Weight | 3,902 lbs | 3,461 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,850 mm | 2,625 mm |
| Length | 4,935 mm | 4,755 mm |
| Units Produced | 28,929 | 5,855 |
| Original MSRP | $73,500 | $54,500 |
| Value (Excellent) | $80,000 | $95,000 |
| Collectibility | 7/10 | 8/10 |
| Rarity | 5/10 | 7/10 |
Numbers favor the 1986 BMW M635CSi E24 with quicker acceleration, higher top speed, lighter weight. The 1986 Mercedes-Benz 560 SEC W126 offers better value, and has its own devoted following. For those who let their heart decide, either car delivers a rewarding ownership experience.
In the world of Grand Tourer cars, few comparisons generate as much discussion as the 1986 Mercedes-Benz 560 SEC W126 versus the 1986 BMW M635CSi E24. Both hail from Modern classic and represent the pinnacle of their respective manufacturers' ambitions. On paper, the two are remarkably close in power output, with the 1986 Mercedes-Benz 560 SEC W126 producing 300 hp and the 1986 BMW M635CSi E24 delivering 286 hp. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Mercedes-Benz 560 SEC uses a V8 SOHC 16V displacing 5,547 cc, while the BMW M635CSi relies on a Inline-6 DOHC with 3,453 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1986 BMW M635CSi E24 edges ahead at 6.1 seconds versus 6.3 seconds. The BMW M635CSi carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 441 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 5,855 units built, the 1986 BMW M635CSi E24 is considerably scarcer than the Mercedes-Benz 560 SEC's 28,929 examples.