1996 BMW 530 vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW 530. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 530 would be higher. At 3,197 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C (215 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 1996 BMW 530. (193 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW 530. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 90 kg more than 1996 BMW 530. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Mercedes-Benz C is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 BMW 530. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C (310 Nm) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW 530. (280 Nm). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW 530. 2004 Mercedes-Benz C has automatic transmission and 1996 BMW 530 has manual transmission. 1996 BMW 530 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW 530 | 2004 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 530 | C |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2793 cc | 3197 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 193 HP | 215 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 310 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.1 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1515 kg | 1605 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2970 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 62 L |
