2009 BMW 523 vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz ML
To start off, 2009 BMW 523 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mercedes-Benz ML. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mercedes-Benz ML would be higher. At 3,724 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz ML is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz ML (232 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 57 more horse power than 2009 BMW 523. (175 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz ML should accelerate faster than 2009 BMW 523.
Because 2003 Mercedes-Benz ML is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 BMW 523. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz ML (345 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 115 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 BMW 523. (230 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz ML will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 BMW 523. 2003 Mercedes-Benz ML has automatic transmission and 2009 BMW 523 has manual transmission. 2009 BMW 523 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Mercedes-Benz ML will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW 523 | 2003 Mercedes-Benz ML | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 523 | ML |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 3724 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 232 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 345 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.6 seconds | 9.1 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1470 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1850 mm | 1830 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 83 L |
