1996 BMW 525 vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL is newer by 12 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 2,987 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL (216 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 75 more horse power than 1996 BMW 525. (141 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW 525. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL weights approximately 896 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 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL (540 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 261 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW 525. (279 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW 525. 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL 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. 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW 525 | 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 525 | GL |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2496 cc | 2987 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 216 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 279 Nm | 540 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 22.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 211 km/hour | 210 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1563 kg | 2459 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 5090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1850 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 3080 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 100 L |
