2009 BMW 320 vs. 1997 Mercedes-Benz ML
To start off, 2009 BMW 320 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mercedes-Benz ML. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mercedes-Benz ML would be higher. At 3,199 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Mercedes-Benz ML is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mercedes-Benz ML (215 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 2009 BMW 320. (175 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz ML should accelerate faster than 2009 BMW 320. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz ML weights approximately 465 kg more than 2009 BMW 320. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 Mercedes-Benz ML is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 BMW 320. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz ML 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 BMW 320 (351 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 41 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mercedes-Benz ML. (310 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 320 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mercedes-Benz ML.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW 320 | 1997 Mercedes-Benz ML | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 320 | ML |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 3199 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 215 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 351 Nm | 310 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Top Speed | 230 km/hour | 180 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 5.6 seconds | 9.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1525 kg | 1990 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2000 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1810 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2830 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 72 L |
