1996 BMW 725 vs. 2002 Mercedes-Benz V
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz V is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW 725. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 725 would be higher. At 2,498 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW 725 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW 725 (141 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 2002 Mercedes-Benz V. (139 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW 725 should accelerate faster than 2002 Mercedes-Benz V. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz V weights approximately 215 kg more than 1996 BMW 725.
Because 1996 BMW 725 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1996 BMW 725. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz V, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 1996 BMW 725 (280 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Mercedes-Benz V. (210 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1996 BMW 725 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Mercedes-Benz V. 2002 Mercedes-Benz V has automatic transmission and 1996 BMW 725 has manual transmission. 1996 BMW 725 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Mercedes-Benz V will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW 725 | 2002 Mercedes-Benz V | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 725 | V |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2498 cc | 2295 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 139 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1785 kg | 2000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5130 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1850 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2940 mm | 3010 mm |
