2009 BMW X5 vs. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2009 BMW X5 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 4,973 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW X5 (350 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 1996 Mercedes-Benz S. (317 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW X5 should accelerate faster than 1996 Mercedes-Benz S.
Because 2009 BMW X5 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Mercedes-Benz S. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2009 BMW X5 (475 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mercedes-Benz S. (470 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2009 BMW X5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW X5 | 1996 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | X5 | S |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4799 cc | 4973 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 350 HP | 317 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 475 Nm | 470 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 96.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.3 mm | 85 mm |
| 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 Length | 4860 mm | 5120 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1940 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1770 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2940 mm | 3150 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 70 L |
