1996 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 2011 BMW X5
To start off, 2011 BMW X5 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz C would be higher. At 3,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 BMW X5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 BMW X5 (265 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 145 more horse power than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. (120 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW X5 should accelerate faster than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 BMW X5 weights approximately 945 kg more than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 BMW X5 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 BMW X5 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 BMW X5 (576 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 406 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. (170 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2011 BMW X5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mercedes-Benz C | 2011 BMW X5 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | BMW |
| Model | C | X5 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1797 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 265 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 576 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 2355 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4857 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1933 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1776 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2934 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 85 L |
