1999 Mercedes-Benz ML vs. 2012 BMW 550
To start off, 2012 BMW 550 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Mercedes-Benz ML. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Mercedes-Benz ML would be higher. At 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 1999 Mercedes-Benz ML is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW 550 (400 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 58 more horse power than 1999 Mercedes-Benz ML. (342 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW 550 should accelerate faster than 1999 Mercedes-Benz ML. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Mercedes-Benz ML weights approximately 180 kg more than 2012 BMW 550.
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 550 (609 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 99 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Mercedes-Benz ML. (510 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2012 BMW 550 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Mercedes-Benz ML.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Mercedes-Benz ML | 2012 BMW 550 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | BMW |
| Model | ML | 550 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2012 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5439 cc | 4400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 342 HP | 400 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 510 Nm | 609 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2230 kg | 2050 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4899 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1810 mm | 1464 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2968 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 72 L | 70 L |
