1980 Ford Fairlane vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz ML
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz ML is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Ford Fairlane. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Ford Fairlane would be higher. At 4,093 cc (6 cylinders), 1980 Ford Fairlane is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz ML (268 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 144 more horse power than 1980 Ford Fairlane. (124 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz ML should accelerate faster than 1980 Ford Fairlane. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mercedes-Benz ML weights approximately 741 kg more than 1980 Ford Fairlane. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 Mercedes-Benz ML is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1980 Ford Fairlane. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz ML (349 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 53 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Ford Fairlane. (296 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz ML will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Ford Fairlane.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Ford Fairlane | 2011 Mercedes-Benz ML | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Fairlane | ML |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4093 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 124 HP | 268 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 296 Nm | 349 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1404 kg | 2145 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5020 mm | 4780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1816 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2913 mm |
