2008 BMW 325 vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz GL
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz GL is newer by 3 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 5,500 cc (8 cylinders), 2011 Mercedes-Benz GL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 325 (500 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 118 more horse power than 2011 Mercedes-Benz GL. (382 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 325 should accelerate faster than 2011 Mercedes-Benz GL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mercedes-Benz GL weights approximately 960 kg more than 2008 BMW 325.
Because 2011 Mercedes-Benz GL is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2008 BMW 325. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz GL (530 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 285 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW 325. (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz GL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW 325.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 325 | 2011 Mercedes-Benz GL | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 325 | GL |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2493 cc | 5500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 500 HP | 382 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 530 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1555 kg | 2515 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 5098 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1839 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 3076 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 100 L |
