1992 BMW 538 vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz R
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz R is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1992 BMW 538. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1992 BMW 538 would be higher. At 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz R is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1992 BMW 538 (341 HP @ 6900 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 2005 Mercedes-Benz R. (302 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1992 BMW 538 should accelerate faster than 2005 Mercedes-Benz R. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz R weights approximately 410 kg more than 1992 BMW 538.
Because 2005 Mercedes-Benz R is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1992 BMW 538. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz R 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 R (461 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 61 more torque (in Nm) than 1992 BMW 538. (400 Nm @ 4750 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz R will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1992 BMW 538.
Compare all specifications:
| 1992 BMW 538 | 2005 Mercedes-Benz R | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 538 | R |
| Year Released | 1992 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3795 cc | 4966 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 341 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6900 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 461 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4750 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 94.6 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 84 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1830 kg | 2240 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 5160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1660 mm |
