2012 BMW M5 vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2012 BMW M5 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2011 Mercedes-Benz E. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2011 Mercedes-Benz E would be higher. At 4,700 cc (8 cylinders), 2011 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW M5 (560 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 158 more horse power than 2011 Mercedes-Benz E. (402 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW M5 should accelerate faster than 2011 Mercedes-Benz E.
Because 2011 Mercedes-Benz E is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2012 BMW M5. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz E 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, 2012 BMW M5 (680 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Mercedes-Benz E. (600 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2012 BMW M5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Mercedes-Benz E.
Compare all specifications:
| 2012 BMW M5 | 2011 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | M5 | E |
| Year Released | 2012 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4400 cc | 4700 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 560 HP | 402 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 680 Nm | 600 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | 7-speed automated manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
