1996 BMW 525 vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz R
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz R is newer by 10 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 3,506 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz R is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz R (268 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 100 more horse power than 1996 BMW 525. (168 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz R should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW 525. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz R weights approximately 695 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.
Because 2006 Mercedes-Benz R is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 BMW 525. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz R (350 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 105 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW 525. (245 Nm @ 3950 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz R will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW 525. 2006 Mercedes-Benz R 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. 2006 Mercedes-Benz R will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW 525 | 2006 Mercedes-Benz R | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 525 | R |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 3506 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 268 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 92.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.7:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 6 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1510 kg | 2205 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 5160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1660 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 3220 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 80 L |
