1978 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2007 Mercedes-Benz ML
To start off, 2007 Mercedes-Benz ML is newer by 29 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 2,998 cc (5 cylinders), 1978 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mercedes-Benz ML (215 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 101 more horse power than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. (114 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mercedes-Benz ML should accelerate faster than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 65 kg more than 2007 Mercedes-Benz ML.
Because 2007 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, 2007 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, 2007 Mercedes-Benz ML (540 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 309 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. (231 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2007 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 | 2007 Mercedes-Benz ML | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | S | ML |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2998 cc | 2985 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 215 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 231 Nm | 540 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 1400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2215 kg | 2150 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4970 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1920 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1820 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2920 mm |
