1996 BMW 525 vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLS
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLS is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW 525. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 525 would be higher. At 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLS (268 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 127 more horse power than 1996 BMW 525. (141 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLS should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW 525. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLS weights approximately 167 kg more than 1996 BMW 525. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLS (350 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 71 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW 525. (279 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW 525. 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLS has automatic transmission and 1996 BMW 525 has manual transmission. 1996 BMW 525 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1996 BMW 525 | 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLS | |
Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | 525 | CLS |
Year Released | 1996 | 2004 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2496 cc | 3498 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 141 HP | 268 HP |
Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 279 Nm | 350 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 2400 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 22.0:1 | 10.7:1 |
Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
Top Speed | 211 km/hour | 245 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1563 kg | 1730 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4920 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1860 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1410 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2860 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 80 L |