Germany vs Germany — 1988 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 | 14.0 sec | 13.2 sec |
| Weight | 3,638 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) | $80,000 | $350,000 |
| Collectibility | 8/10 | 9/10 |
| Rarity | 6/10 | 9/10 |
Numbers favor the 1993 Mercedes-Benz E 60 AMG W124 6.0 V8 with more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1988 BMW M5 E34 offers lighter weight, 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 Sports Sedan cars, few comparisons generate as much discussion as the 1988 BMW M5 E34 versus the 1993 Mercedes-Benz E 60 AMG W124 6.0 V8. Both hail from Modern classic and represent the pinnacle of their respective manufacturers' ambitions. 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 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. The BMW M5 carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 330 lbs lighter. 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 1988 BMW M5 E34, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.