2008 BMW 325 vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 BMW 325. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 BMW 325 would be higher. At 5,461 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL (382 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 167 more horse power than 2008 BMW 325. (215 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW 325. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL weights approximately 1360 kg more than 2008 BMW 325. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2008 BMW 325. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL (530 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 280 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW 325. (250 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW 325. 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL has automatic transmission and 2008 BMW 325 has manual transmission. 2008 BMW 325 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 325 | 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 325 | GL |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 5461 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 382 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 530 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1470 kg | 2830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 5100 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1850 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 3080 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.6 L/100km | 16.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 100 L |
