2008 BMW X5 vs. 1985 Mercedes-Benz 500

To start off, 2008 BMW X5 is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Mercedes-Benz 500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Mercedes-Benz 500 would be higher. At 4,973 cc (8 cylinders), 1985 Mercedes-Benz 500 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW X5 (316 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 71 more horse power than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 500. (245 HP @ 4750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW X5 should accelerate faster than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW X5 weights approximately 587 kg more than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 500. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2008 BMW X5 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 500. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 BMW X5 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, 2008 BMW X5 (440 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 41 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 500. (399 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2008 BMW X5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 500.

Compare all specifications:

2008 BMW X5 1985 Mercedes-Benz 500
Make BMW Mercedes-Benz
Model X5 500
Year Released 2008 1985
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 4398 cc 4973 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 8 cylinders
Engine Type V V
Horse Power 316 HP 245 HP
Engine RPM 6100 RPM 4750 RPM
Torque 440 Nm 399 Nm
Torque RPM 3700 RPM 2750 RPM
Engine Bore Size 92 mm 96.5 mm
Engine Stroke Size 82.7 mm 85 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 10.0:1 10.0:1
Top Speed 210 km/hour 216 km/hour
Drive Type 4WD Rear
Number of Seats 5 seats 2 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 2195 kg 1608 kg
Vehicle Length 4670 mm 4400 mm
Vehicle Width 1880 mm 1800 mm
Vehicle Height 1710 mm 1300 mm
Wheelbase Size 2830 mm 2460 mm