1999 BMW 529 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz Viano
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz Viano is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 BMW 529. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 BMW 529 would be higher. At 2,979 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 BMW 529 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 BMW 529 (193 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 2012 Mercedes-Benz Viano. (161 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 BMW 529 should accelerate faster than 2012 Mercedes-Benz Viano. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz Viano weights approximately 1205 kg more than 1999 BMW 529.
Because 1999 BMW 529 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 1999 BMW 529. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz Viano, 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, 1999 BMW 529 (410 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mercedes-Benz Viano. (360 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 1999 BMW 529 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mercedes-Benz Viano. 2012 Mercedes-Benz Viano has automatic transmission and 1999 BMW 529 has manual transmission. 1999 BMW 529 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Mercedes-Benz Viano will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 BMW 529 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz Viano | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 529 | Viano |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2979 cc | 2148 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 193 HP | 161 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 410 Nm | 360 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 88.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 88.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1625 kg | 2830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 5000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1910 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 3210 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 79 L |
