1988 BMW 525 vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 BMW 525. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW 525 would be higher. At 5,441 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK (362 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 194 more horse power than 1988 BMW 525. (168 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK should accelerate faster than 1988 BMW 525. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK weights approximately 189 kg more than 1988 BMW 525. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK (510 Nm) has 284 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW 525. (226 Nm). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 BMW 525.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 BMW 525 | 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 525 | CLK |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2443 cc | 5441 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 362 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 226 Nm | 510 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.1 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1460 kg | 1649 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 62 L |
