2003 BMW 520 vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 BMW 520 would be higher. At 3,199 cc, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 75 kg more than 2003 BMW 520.
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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C (451 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 241 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 BMW 520. (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 BMW 520. 2008 Mercedes-Benz C 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. 2008 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 BMW 520 | 2008 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 520 | C |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2171 cc | 3199 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 167 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 451 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 84 mm |
| Top Speed | 230 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.3 seconds | 5.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 1635 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3000 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9 L/100km | 11.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 62 L |
