1972 Ford Gran Torino vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz R
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz R is newer by 37 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Ford Gran Torino. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Ford Gran Torino would be higher. At 4,095 cc (6 cylinders), 1972 Ford Gran Torino is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz R (268 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 173 more horse power than 1972 Ford Gran Torino. (95 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz R should accelerate faster than 1972 Ford Gran Torino. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Ford Gran Torino weights approximately 536 kg more than 2009 Mercedes-Benz R.
Because 2009 Mercedes-Benz R is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1972 Ford Gran Torino. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz R 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 Mercedes-Benz R (350 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 105 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Ford Gran Torino. (245 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz R will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Ford Gran Torino. 2009 Mercedes-Benz R has automatic transmission and 1972 Ford Gran Torino has manual transmission. 1972 Ford Gran Torino will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Mercedes-Benz R will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Ford Gran Torino | 2009 Mercedes-Benz R | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Gran Torino | R |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4095 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 95 HP | 268 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 6 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1681 kg | 1145 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5370 mm | 5160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2020 mm | 1960 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1670 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3000 mm | 3220 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 87 L | 80 L |
