1991 BMW 518 vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz ML
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz ML is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 BMW 518. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 BMW 518 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 389 more horse power than 1991 BMW 518. (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz ML should accelerate faster than 1991 BMW 518. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz ML weights approximately 1156 kg more than 1991 BMW 518. 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 1991 BMW 518. 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 465 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 BMW 518. (165 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz ML will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 BMW 518. 2009 Mercedes-Benz ML has automatic transmission and 1991 BMW 518 has manual transmission. 1991 BMW 518 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Mercedes-Benz ML will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 BMW 518 | 2009 Mercedes-Benz ML | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 518 | ML |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1766 cc | 6208 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 503 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 630 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 520 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1160 kg | 2316 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 2130 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1820 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2920 mm |
