1988 BMW 520 vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL is newer by 21 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 5,461 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL (382 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 253 more horse power than 1988 BMW 520. (129 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL should accelerate faster than 1988 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL weights approximately 875 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 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL (531 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 357 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW 520. (174 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 BMW 520.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 BMW 520 | 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 520 | GL |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1989 cc | 5461 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 129 HP | 382 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 174 Nm | 531 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 98 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66 mm | 90.5 mm |
| Top Speed | 202 km/hour | 240 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 12.5 seconds | 6.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1570 kg | 2445 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 5090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1930 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 3080 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.9 L/100km | 14.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 100 L |
