2003 BMW 520 vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz ML
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz ML 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 ML is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz ML (268 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 101 more horse power than 2003 BMW 520. (167 HP @ 6100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz ML should accelerate faster than 2003 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mercedes-Benz ML weights approximately 430 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 ML is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 BMW 520. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz ML 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 ML (349 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 139 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 BMW 520. (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz ML will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 BMW 520. 2011 Mercedes-Benz ML 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. 2011 Mercedes-Benz ML will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 BMW 520 | 2011 Mercedes-Benz ML | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 520 | ML |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2170 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 | 268 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 349 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1670 kg | 2100 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1816 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2913 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 7.5 L/100km | 11.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 12.8 L/100km | 14.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 95 L |
