2003 BMW 520 vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz V
To start off, 2003 BMW 520 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercedes-Benz V. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz V would be higher. At 2,295 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz V is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW 520 (167 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1998 Mercedes-Benz V. (139 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW 520 should accelerate faster than 1998 Mercedes-Benz V. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz V weights approximately 330 kg more than 2003 BMW 520.
Because 2003 BMW 520 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2003 BMW 520. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz V, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, both vehicles can yield 210 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles. 1998 Mercedes-Benz V has automatic transmission and 2003 BMW 520 has manual transmission. 2003 BMW 520 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Mercedes-Benz V will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 BMW 520 | 1998 Mercedes-Benz V | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 520 | V |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2170 cc | 2295 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 167 HP | 139 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1670 kg | 2000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1850 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 3010 mm |
