1978 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz ML
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz ML is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 2,987 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz ML is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz ML (187 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. (157 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz ML should accelerate faster than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz ML weights approximately 544 kg more than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 Mercedes-Benz ML is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz ML (440 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 217 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. (223 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz ML will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Mercedes-Benz S | 2006 Mercedes-Benz ML | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | S | ML |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2746 cc | 2987 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 157 HP | 187 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 223 Nm | 440 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.7:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1610 kg | 2154 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1920 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1820 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2920 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 95 L |
