2004 BMW X5 vs. 1988 Mercedes-Benz G

To start off, 2004 BMW X5 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Mercedes-Benz G. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Mercedes-Benz G would be higher. At 4,799 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 BMW X5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 BMW X5 (355 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 230 more horse power than 1988 Mercedes-Benz G. (125 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 BMW X5 should accelerate faster than 1988 Mercedes-Benz G. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 BMW X5 weights approximately 395 kg more than 1988 Mercedes-Benz G. 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, 2004 BMW X5 (500 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 314 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Mercedes-Benz G. (186 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2004 BMW X5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Mercedes-Benz G. 2004 BMW X5 has automatic transmission and 1988 Mercedes-Benz G has manual transmission. 1988 Mercedes-Benz G will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 BMW X5 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2004 BMW X5 1988 Mercedes-Benz G
Make BMW Mercedes-Benz
Model X5 G
Year Released 2004 1988
Body Type SUV SUV
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 4799 cc 2297 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 2 valves
Horse Power 355 HP 125 HP
Engine RPM 6200 RPM 5000 RPM
Torque 500 Nm 186 Nm
Torque RPM 3600 RPM 4000 RPM
Engine Bore Size 93.1 mm 95.5 mm
Engine Stroke Size 88.3 mm 80.2 mm
Drive Type 4WD 4WD
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 2275 kg 1880 kg
Vehicle Length 4670 mm 4240 mm
Vehicle Width 1880 mm 1770 mm
Vehicle Height 1730 mm 1940 mm
Wheelbase Size 2940 mm 2410 mm