1999 BMW M5 vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz GL
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz GL 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 66 more horse power than 2011 Mercedes-Benz GL. (335 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 BMW M5 should accelerate faster than 2011 Mercedes-Benz GL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mercedes-Benz GL weights approximately 815 kg more than 1999 BMW M5.
Because 2011 Mercedes-Benz GL is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1999 BMW M5. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz GL 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, 1999 BMW M5 (499 Nm) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Mercedes-Benz GL. (459 Nm). This means 1999 BMW M5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Mercedes-Benz GL. 2011 Mercedes-Benz GL 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 GL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 BMW M5 | 2011 Mercedes-Benz GL | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | M5 | GL |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4900 cc | 4700 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 401 HP | 335 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 499 Nm | 459 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1610 kg | 2425 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 5098 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1989 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1839 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 3076 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 100 L |
