2008 BMW 523 vs. 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL
To start off, 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 BMW 523. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 BMW 523 would be higher. At 4,600 cc (8 cylinders), 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL (423 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 248 more horse power than 2008 BMW 523. (175 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW 523. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL weights approximately 955 kg more than 2008 BMW 523. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2008 BMW 523. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2013 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, 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL (700 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 470 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW 523. (230 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW 523.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 523 | 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 523 | GL |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2013 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 4600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | electric |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 423 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 700 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.1 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.5 seconds | 5.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 2445 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 5120 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1850 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 3075 mm |
