1988 BMW 530 vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 BMW 530. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW 530 would be higher. At 3,994 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML (247 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 1988 BMW 530. (188 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML should accelerate faster than 1988 BMW 530. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML weights approximately 742 kg more than 1988 BMW 530. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1988 BMW 530. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML (560 Nm @ 1700 RPM) has 299 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW 530. (261 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 BMW 530. 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML has automatic transmission and 1988 BMW 530 has manual transmission. 1988 BMW 530 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 BMW 530 | 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 530 | ML |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2986 cc | 3994 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 188 HP | 247 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 261 Nm | 560 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 86 mm |
| Top Speed | 216 km/hour | 213 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1593 kg | 2335 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1830 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2720 mm |
