1999 BMW M5 vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 12 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 4,900 cc (8 cylinders), 1999 BMW M5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 BMW M5 (401 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 138 more horse power than 2011 Mercedes-Benz C. (263 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 BMW M5 should accelerate faster than 2011 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 150 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz C (620 Nm) has 121 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 BMW M5. (499 Nm). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 BMW M5. 2011 Mercedes-Benz C 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. 2011 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 BMW M5 | 2011 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | M5 | C |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4900 cc | 2987 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 401 HP | 263 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 499 Nm | 620 Nm |
| Top Speed | 295 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1610 kg | 1760 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4606 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1459 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 66 L |
