2008 BMW X5 vs. 1988 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2008 BMW X5 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 4,973 cc (8 cylinders), 1988 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW X5 (351 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 90 more horse power than 1988 Mercedes-Benz S. (261 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW X5 should accelerate faster than 1988 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW X5 weights approximately 574 kg more than 1988 Mercedes-Benz S. 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 1988 Mercedes-Benz S. 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 (475 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Mercedes-Benz S. (405 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 BMW X5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW X5 | 1988 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | X5 | S |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1988 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4799 cc | 4973 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 351 HP | 261 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 475 Nm | 405 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2200 kg | 1626 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 5030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1940 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1770 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2940 mm | 2950 mm |
