1997 Mercedes-Benz ML vs. 2012 BMW X5
To start off, 2012 BMW X5 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mercedes-Benz ML. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mercedes-Benz ML would be higher. At 3,199 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Mercedes-Benz ML is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW X5 (300 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 85 more horse power than 1997 Mercedes-Benz ML. (215 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW X5 should accelerate faster than 1997 Mercedes-Benz ML. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW X5 weights approximately 260 kg more than 1997 Mercedes-Benz ML. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2012 BMW X5 (406 Nm @ 1300 RPM) has 96 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mercedes-Benz ML. (310 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 BMW X5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mercedes-Benz ML.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Mercedes-Benz ML | 2012 BMW X5 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | BMW |
| Model | ML | X5 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
| Body Type | SUV | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3199 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 300 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 310 Nm | 406 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1300 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1990 kg | 2250 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4854 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1933 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1810 mm | 1775 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2933 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 72 L | 85 L |
