1988 BMW 525 vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 17 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 3,199 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C (215 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 1988 BMW 525. (168 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1988 BMW 525. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 180 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.
Because 2005 Mercedes-Benz C is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1988 BMW 525. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C (310 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 84 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW 525. (226 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 BMW 525. 2005 Mercedes-Benz C has automatic transmission and 1988 BMW 525 has manual transmission. 1988 BMW 525 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 BMW 525 | 2005 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 525 | C |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2443 cc | 3199 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 215 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 226 Nm | 310 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.1 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1460 kg | 1640 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 62 L |
