1996 BMW 540 vs. 2013 Mercedes-Benz CL
To start off, 2013 Mercedes-Benz CL is newer by 17 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 4,600 cc (4 cylinders), 2013 Mercedes-Benz CL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Mercedes-Benz CL (423 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 141 more horse power than 1996 BMW 540. (282 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Mercedes-Benz CL should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW 540. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Mercedes-Benz CL weights approximately 385 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 2013 Mercedes-Benz CL 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, 2013 Mercedes-Benz CL 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, 2013 Mercedes-Benz CL (700 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 260 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW 540. (440 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2013 Mercedes-Benz CL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW 540. 1996 BMW 540 has automatic transmission and 2013 Mercedes-Benz CL has manual transmission. 2013 Mercedes-Benz CL will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 BMW 540 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW 540 | 2013 Mercedes-Benz CL | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 540 | CL |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 4398 cc | 4600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 282 HP | 423 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 440 Nm | 700 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82.7 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.5 : 1 |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 210 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.7 seconds | 5.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1735 kg | 2120 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 5095 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 2130 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1419 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2955 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 8.8 L/100km | 8.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 18.4 L/100km | 13.8 L/100km |
