1996 BMW 540 vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz ML
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz ML is newer by 15 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 5,500 cc (8 cylinders), 2011 Mercedes-Benz ML is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz ML (382 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 100 more horse power than 1996 BMW 540. (282 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz ML should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW 540. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mercedes-Benz ML weights approximately 360 kg more than 1996 BMW 540. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 Mercedes-Benz ML is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 BMW 540. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz ML 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz ML (530 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW 540. (440 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz ML will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW 540. 2011 Mercedes-Benz ML 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. 2011 Mercedes-Benz ML will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW 540 | 2011 Mercedes-Benz ML | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 540 | ML |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4397 cc | 5500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 282 HP | 382 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 440 Nm | 530 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1815 kg | 2175 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1816 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2913 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 9 L/100km | 13.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 18.7 L/100km | 18.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 95 L |
