2005 Mercedes-Benz R vs. 2011 BMW 550
To start off, 2011 BMW 550 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Mercedes-Benz R. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Mercedes-Benz R would be higher. At 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz R is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 BMW 550 (400 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 98 more horse power than 2005 Mercedes-Benz R. (302 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW 550 should accelerate faster than 2005 Mercedes-Benz R. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz R weights approximately 20 kg more than 2011 BMW 550.
Because 2005 Mercedes-Benz R is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2011 BMW 550. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz R 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, 2011 BMW 550 (609 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 148 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mercedes-Benz R. (461 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2011 BMW 550 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mercedes-Benz R.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mercedes-Benz R | 2011 BMW 550 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | BMW |
| Model | R | 550 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4966 cc | 4400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 302 HP | 400 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 461 Nm | 609 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2240 kg | 2220 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5160 mm | 4999 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1930 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1660 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 3071 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 70 L |
