1996 BMW 545 vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW 545. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 545 would be higher. At 5,461 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL (382 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 100 more horse power than 1996 BMW 545. (282 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW 545. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL weights approximately 1180 kg more than 1996 BMW 545. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 BMW 545. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL (530 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW 545. (440 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW 545. 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL has automatic transmission and 1996 BMW 545 has manual transmission. 1996 BMW 545 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW 545 | 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 545 | GL |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4398 cc | 5461 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 282 HP | 382 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 440 Nm | 530 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1650 kg | 2830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 5100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1850 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 3080 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 100 L |
