2009 BMW 550 vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz V
To start off, 2009 BMW 550 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercedes-Benz V. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz V would be higher. At 2,495 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 BMW 550 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 550 (362 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 223 more horse power than 1998 Mercedes-Benz V. (139 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 550 should accelerate faster than 1998 Mercedes-Benz V. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz V weights approximately 340 kg more than 2009 BMW 550.
Because 2009 BMW 550 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2009 BMW 550. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz V, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 550 (490 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 280 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz V. (210 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 550 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mercedes-Benz V.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW 550 | 1998 Mercedes-Benz V | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 550 | V |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2495 cc | 2295 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 362 HP | 139 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 490 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1660 kg | 2000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1850 mm | 1850 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 3010 mm |
