1986 BMW 325 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 BMW 325. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 BMW 325 would be higher. At 2,987 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML (201 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1986 BMW 325. (171 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML should accelerate faster than 1986 BMW 325.
Because 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1986 BMW 325. 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 (500 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 274 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 BMW 325. (226 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 BMW 325. 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML has automatic transmission and 1986 BMW 325 has manual transmission. 1986 BMW 325 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:
| 1986 BMW 325 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 325 | ML |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2493 cc | 2987 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 171 HP | 201 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 226 Nm | 500 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 4803 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 2141 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1796 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2916 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 93 L |
