2003 BMW 520 vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 8 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 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz E (302 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 135 more horse power than 2003 BMW 520. (167 HP @ 6100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 2003 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 211 kg more than 2003 BMW 520. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 Mercedes-Benz E is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 BMW 520. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz E 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz E (370 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 160 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 BMW 520. (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 BMW 520.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 BMW 520 | 2011 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 520 | E |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2171 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 167 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1700 kg | 1911 kg |
| Fuel Consumption | 7.7 L/100km | 9.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 13 L/100km | 13.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 80 L |
