1988 BMW 520 vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz ML
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz ML 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 6,208 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz ML is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz ML (503 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 374 more horse power than 1988 BMW 520. (129 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz ML should accelerate faster than 1988 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz ML weights approximately 746 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 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, 2009 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz ML (630 Nm @ 520 RPM) has 456 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW 520. (174 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 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 | 2009 Mercedes-Benz ML | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 520 | ML |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1989 cc | 6208 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 129 HP | 503 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Torque | 174 Nm | 630 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 520 RPM |
| Top Speed | 202 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 12.5 seconds | 5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1570 kg | 2316 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 2130 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1820 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2920 mm |
| Fuel Consumption City | 13.5 L/100km | 19.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.9 L/100km | 13.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 95 L |
