1980 Mercedes-Benz G vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Mercedes-Benz G. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Mercedes-Benz G would be higher. At 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML (288 HP @ 2700 RPM) has 163 more horse power than 1980 Mercedes-Benz G. (125 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML should accelerate faster than 1980 Mercedes-Benz G. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML weights approximately 260 kg more than 1980 Mercedes-Benz G. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are four wheel drive (4WD) - it offers better handling, traction, and control in all driving conditions compared with front wheel drive or rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML (440 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 248 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Mercedes-Benz G. (192 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Mercedes-Benz G. 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML has automatic transmission and 1980 Mercedes-Benz G has manual transmission. 1980 Mercedes-Benz G will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Mercedes-Benz G | 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | G | ML |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2008 |
| Body Type | SUV | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2297 cc | 4966 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 125 HP | 288 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Torque | 192 Nm | 440 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.5 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80.2 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1880 kg | 2140 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4240 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1940 mm | 1830 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2830 mm |
