1996 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2009 BMW 525
To start off, 2009 BMW 525 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 4,195 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S (275 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 2009 BMW 525. (215 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2009 BMW 525. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 425 kg more than 2009 BMW 525. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 BMW 525 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Mercedes-Benz S. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 BMW 525 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, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S (400 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 150 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 BMW 525. (250 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 BMW 525.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mercedes-Benz S | 2009 BMW 525 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | BMW |
| Model | S | 525 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4195 cc | 2497 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 275 HP | 215 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.9 mm | 82 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1990 kg | 1565 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5120 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1470 mm |
