1976 Ford Taunus vs. 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML
To start off, 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Ford Taunus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Ford Taunus would be higher. At 3,994 cc (8 cylinders), 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML (247 HP) has 190 more horse power than 1976 Ford Taunus. (57 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML should accelerate faster than 1976 Ford Taunus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML weights approximately 1315 kg more than 1976 Ford Taunus. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1976 Ford Taunus. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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, 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML (560 Nm @ 1700 RPM) has 468 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Ford Taunus. (92 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Ford Taunus. 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML has automatic transmission and 1976 Ford Taunus has manual transmission. 1976 Ford Taunus will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Ford Taunus | 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Taunus | ML |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1294 cc | 3994 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 57 HP | 247 HP |
| Torque | 92 Nm | 560 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 63 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 18.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 2335 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1830 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 83 L |
