2004 BMW X5 vs. 1989 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2004 BMW X5 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Mercedes-Benz S 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 191 more horse power than 1989 Mercedes-Benz S. (164 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 BMW X5 should accelerate faster than 1989 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 BMW X5 weights approximately 755 kg more than 1989 Mercedes-Benz S. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 BMW X5 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1989 Mercedes-Benz S. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 BMW X5 (500 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 272 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mercedes-Benz S. (228 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2004 BMW X5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mercedes-Benz S. 2004 BMW X5 has automatic transmission and 1989 Mercedes-Benz S has manual transmission. 1989 Mercedes-Benz S 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 | 1989 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | X5 | S |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1989 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4799 cc | 2599 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 355 HP | 164 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 500 Nm | 228 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93.1 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.3 mm | 80.3 mm |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2275 kg | 1520 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 5030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1730 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2940 mm | 2950 mm |
