2005 BMW X5 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 BMW X5. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 BMW X5 would be higher. At 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS (305 HP @ 3500 RPM) has 90 more horse power than 2005 BMW X5. (215 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS should accelerate faster than 2005 BMW X5. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 BMW X5 weights approximately 435 kg more than 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS.
Because 2005 BMW X5 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2005 BMW X5 (520 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 150 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS. (370 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2005 BMW X5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS. 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS has automatic transmission and 2005 BMW X5 has manual transmission. 2005 BMW X5 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 BMW X5 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | X5 | CLS |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2012 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2926 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 305 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 520 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 12.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 210 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.3 seconds | 6.1 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2170 kg | 1735 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4940 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1882 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1720 mm | 1417 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2875 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 93 L | 80 L |
