1988 BMW 520 vs. 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML
To start off, 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW 520 would be higher. At 3,700 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML (232 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 103 more horse power than 1988 BMW 520. (129 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML should accelerate faster than 1988 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML weights approximately 480 kg more than 1988 BMW 520. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1988 BMW 520. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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, 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML (344 Nm) has 170 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW 520. (174 Nm). This means 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 BMW 520.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 BMW 520 | 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 520 | ML |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1989 cc | 3700 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 129 HP | 232 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 174 Nm | 344 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1570 kg | 2050 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1830 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2780 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 72 L |
