2009 BMW X5 vs. 1999 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2009 BMW X5 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 1999 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Mercedes-Benz S (302 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 2009 BMW X5. (282 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2009 BMW X5. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW X5 weights approximately 296 kg more than 1999 Mercedes-Benz S.
Because 2009 BMW X5 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1999 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 (580 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 120 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Mercedes-Benz S. (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2009 BMW X5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW X5 | 1999 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | X5 | S |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1999 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2993 cc | 4966 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 282 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 580 Nm | 460 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | 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 | 2150 kg | 1854 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 5170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1940 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1740 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2940 mm | 3090 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 88 L |
