1999 BMW M5 vs. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 BMW M5. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 BMW M5 would be higher. At 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 BMW M5 (401 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 98 more horse power than 2002 Mercedes-Benz S. (303 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 BMW M5 should accelerate faster than 2002 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 285 kg more than 1999 BMW M5.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 M5 (499 Nm) has 39 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Mercedes-Benz S. (460 Nm). This means 1999 BMW M5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Mercedes-Benz S. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 1999 BMW M5 has manual transmission. 1999 BMW M5 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 BMW M5 | 2002 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | M5 | S |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4900 cc | 4966 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 401 HP | 303 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 499 Nm | 460 Nm |
| Top Speed | 295 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1610 kg | 1895 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 5170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 88 L |
