2006 BMW 523 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz GL
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz GL is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 BMW 523. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 BMW 523 would be higher. At 5,500 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz GL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz GL (382 HP) has 207 more horse power than 2006 BMW 523. (175 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz GL should accelerate faster than 2006 BMW 523.
Because 2012 Mercedes-Benz GL is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2006 BMW 523. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz GL 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz GL (530 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 300 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 BMW 523. (230 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz GL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 BMW 523. 2012 Mercedes-Benz GL has automatic transmission and 2006 BMW 523 has manual transmission. 2006 BMW 523 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Mercedes-Benz GL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 BMW 523 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz GL | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 523 | GL |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 5500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 382 HP |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 530 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 5098 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1989 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1839 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 3076 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 100 L |
