1974 Ford Fairlane vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML is newer by 38 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Ford Fairlane. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Ford Fairlane would be higher. At 5,461 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML (518 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 365 more horse power than 1974 Ford Fairlane. (153 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML should accelerate faster than 1974 Ford Fairlane. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML weights approximately 893 kg more than 1974 Ford Fairlane. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1974 Ford Fairlane. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML 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 Mercedes-Benz ML (699 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 374 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Ford Fairlane. (325 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Ford Fairlane.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Ford Fairlane | 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Fairlane | ML |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3984 cc | 5461 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 153 HP | 518 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 325 Nm | 699 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1452 kg | 2345 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5060 mm | 4803 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 2141 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1796 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2916 mm |
