1980 BMW M5 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 BMW M5. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 BMW M5 would be higher. At 5,461 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML (518 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 300 more horse power than 1980 BMW M5. (218 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML should accelerate faster than 1980 BMW M5. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML weights approximately 954 kg more than 1980 BMW M5. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1980 BMW M5. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML will offer significantly more control. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML (699 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 395 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 BMW M5. (304 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 BMW M5. 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML has automatic transmission and 1980 BMW M5 has manual transmission. 1980 BMW M5 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1980 BMW M5 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML | |
Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | M5 | ML |
Year Released | 1980 | 2012 |
Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3453 cc | 5461 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 218 HP | 518 HP |
Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5250 RPM |
Torque | 304 Nm | 699 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.2 seconds | 4.7 seconds |
Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1391 kg | 2345 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4620 mm | 4803 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 2141 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1796 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2916 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 105 L |