1992 BMW 540 vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz ML
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz ML is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1992 BMW 540. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1992 BMW 540 would be higher. At 3,980 cc (8 cylinders), 1992 BMW 540 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1992 BMW 540 (282 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 2003 Mercedes-Benz ML. (232 HP @ 5750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1992 BMW 540 should accelerate faster than 2003 Mercedes-Benz ML. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz ML weights approximately 535 kg more than 1992 BMW 540.
Because 2003 Mercedes-Benz ML is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1992 BMW 540. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 1992 BMW 540 (400 Nm @ 5100 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mercedes-Benz ML. (345 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1992 BMW 540 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mercedes-Benz ML.
Compare all specifications:
| 1992 BMW 540 | 2003 Mercedes-Benz ML | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 540 | ML |
| Year Released | 1992 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3980 cc | 3724 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 282 HP | 232 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 345 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5100 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 84 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1650 kg | 2185 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 |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 83 L |
