Ali vs Frazier, Manning vs Brady, Magic Johnson vs Larry Bird. These are are some of the greatest rivalries to ever grace the world of sports. Another one to add to the list is the BMW E30 M3 Sport Evolution vs Mercedes-Benz 190 Evolution II. These two cars battled each other in DTM racing all throughout the late ’80s and early ’90s and are two of the most legendary touring cars of all time. For fans of motorsport, these two are most certainly in the hall of fame. Thankfully, both cars are up for auction at Silverstone Auctions’ Classic Motor Show this November.
Both cars are expected to go for around £100k ($124k) each, which is a lot of money for what seem to be simply sport saloons. However, for the fans who know what these two cars are to the automotive world, they’re worth every penny. But the real question is, which one do you buy?
The E30 M3 Sport Evo up for auction is a later model with the 2.5 liter I4 engine, instead of the standard 2.3 liters. This means it makes a healthy 238 hp and is properly quick, capable of 0-60 mph in around 6.5 seconds. That engine is mated to a five-speed manual gearbox and drives the rear wheels. It’s also fitted with lower suspension, better aerodynamics and a stripped out interior. This one also seems to have an AC Schnitzer steering wheel and aluminum pedals.
On the other hand, the Mercedes 190 Evo II also has a 2.5 liter four-cylinder engine, which develops 235 hp and gets from 0-60 mph in 7.1 seconds. Being that both cars are so close in power, credit the slower 0-60 mph time on the Merc’s few hundred pound weight disadvantage. The transmission in the Benz is also a five-speed manual but of the dog-leg variety. Inside, the Merc has black leather seats and wood trim, which is nice and luxurious but heavier.
Both are very cool cars, very rare cars and cars with tremendous Motorsport pedigree. If it were possible, I’d have both. However, if you could only pick one, which would it be?
[Source: Top Gear]
