2003 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 2009 BMW 523
To start off, 2009 BMW 523 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mercedes-Benz E. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mercedes-Benz E would be higher. At 2,597 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 523 (175 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 2003 Mercedes-Benz E. (160 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 523 should accelerate faster than 2003 Mercedes-Benz E. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 155 kg more than 2009 BMW 523.
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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz E (241 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 BMW 523. (230 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 BMW 523. 2009 BMW 523 has automatic transmission and 2003 Mercedes-Benz E has manual transmission. 2003 Mercedes-Benz E will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 BMW 523 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mercedes-Benz E | 2009 BMW 523 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | BMW |
| Model | E | 523 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2597 cc | 2497 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 241 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 82.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 68.2 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.4 seconds | 8.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1720 kg | 1565 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3090 mm | 2890 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 70 L |
