2003 Mercedes-Benz ML vs. 2011 BMW 325
To start off, 2011 BMW 325 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mercedes-Benz ML. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mercedes-Benz ML would be higher. At 3,724 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz ML is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz ML (232 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 2011 BMW 325. (215 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz ML should accelerate faster than 2011 BMW 325. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz ML weights approximately 510 kg more than 2011 BMW 325. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are four wheel drive (4WD) - it offers better handling, traction, and control in all driving conditions compared with front wheel drive or rear 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 ML (345 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 95 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 BMW 325. (250 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz ML will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 BMW 325. 2003 Mercedes-Benz ML has automatic transmission and 2011 BMW 325 has manual transmission. 2011 BMW 325 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Mercedes-Benz ML will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mercedes-Benz ML | 2011 BMW 325 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | BMW |
| Model | ML | 325 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2011 |
| Body Type | SUV | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3724 cc | 2494 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 232 HP | 215 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 345 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 205 km/hour | 240 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.1 seconds | 8 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2185 kg | 1675 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1830 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 83 L | 63 L |
