1996 BMW 540 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 540. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 540 would be higher. At 4,397 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 BMW 540 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW 540 (282 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 66 more horse power than 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL. (216 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW 540 should accelerate faster than 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL weights approximately 644 kg more than 1996 BMW 540.
Because 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 BMW 540. 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 100 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW 540. (440 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW 540. 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL has automatic transmission and 1996 BMW 540 has manual transmission. 1996 BMW 540 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 540 | 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 540 | GL |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4397 cc | 2987 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 282 HP | 216 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 440 Nm | 540 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 210 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.3 seconds | 9.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1815 kg | 2459 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 5090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1850 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 3080 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 9 L/100km | 9.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 18.7 L/100km | 13.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 12.6 L/100km | 10 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 100 L |
