2001 BMW X5 vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz S

To start off, 2001 BMW X5 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 4,965 cc (8 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz S (302 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 121 more horse power than 2001 BMW X5. (181 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2001 BMW X5. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 BMW X5 weights approximately 280 kg more than 1998 Mercedes-Benz S.

Because 2001 BMW X5 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 Mercedes-Benz S. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 BMW X5 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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz S (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 69 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 BMW X5. (391 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 BMW X5. 1998 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 2001 BMW X5 has manual transmission. 2001 BMW X5 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2001 BMW X5 1998 Mercedes-Benz S
Make BMW Mercedes-Benz
Model X5 S
Year Released 2001 1998
Body Type SUV Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2993 cc 4965 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 8 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Valves per Cylinder 2 valves 3 valves
Horse Power 181 HP 302 HP
Engine RPM 4000 RPM 5500 RPM
Torque 391 Nm 460 Nm
Torque RPM 2000 RPM 2700 RPM
Engine Bore Size 84 mm 97 mm
Engine Stroke Size 88 mm 84 mm
Top Speed 200 km/hour 250 km/hour
Drive Type 4WD Rear
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 2155 kg 1875 kg
Vehicle Length 4480 mm 5160 mm
Vehicle Width 1880 mm 1860 mm
Vehicle Height 1720 mm 1450 mm
Wheelbase Size 2730 mm 2970 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 93 L 88 L