2003 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2012 BMW X5
To start off, 2012 BMW X5 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S (493 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 93 more horse power than 2012 BMW X5. (400 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2012 BMW X5. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW X5 weights approximately 455 kg more than 2003 Mercedes-Benz S.
Because 2012 BMW X5 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 Mercedes-Benz S. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 BMW X5 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S (700 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 91 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 BMW X5. (609 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 BMW X5.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mercedes-Benz S | 2012 BMW X5 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | BMW |
| Model | S | X5 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5439 cc | 4400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 493 HP | 400 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 700 Nm | 609 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1985 kg | 2440 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 4854 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1933 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1775 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2970 mm | 2933 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 88 L | 85 L |
