1996 BMW 332 vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz ML
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz ML is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW 332. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 332 would be higher. At 4,965 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz ML is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW 332 (323 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 2006 Mercedes-Benz ML. (288 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW 332 should accelerate faster than 2006 Mercedes-Benz ML. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz ML weights approximately 650 kg more than 1996 BMW 332.
Because 2006 Mercedes-Benz ML is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 BMW 332. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz ML (440 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW 332. (350 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz ML will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW 332. 2006 Mercedes-Benz ML has automatic transmission and 1996 BMW 332 has manual transmission. 1996 BMW 332 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Mercedes-Benz ML will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW 332 | 2006 Mercedes-Benz ML | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 332 | ML |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Convertible | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 4965 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 323 HP | 288 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 440 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.4 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 2210 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1830 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2830 mm |
