1981 Ford Fiesta vs. 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML
To start off, 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Ford Fiesta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Ford Fiesta would be higher. At 5,438 cc (8 cylinders), 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML (342 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 259 more horse power than 1981 Ford Fiesta. (83 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML should accelerate faster than 1981 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML weights approximately 1500 kg more than 1981 Ford Fiesta. 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 1981 Ford Fiesta. 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 (510 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 384 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Ford Fiesta. (126 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Ford Fiesta. 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML has automatic transmission and 1981 Ford Fiesta has manual transmission. 1981 Ford Fiesta 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:
| 1981 Ford Fiesta | 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Fiesta | ML |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 5438 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 83 HP | 342 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 126 Nm | 510 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.6 mm | 92 mm |
| Top Speed | 171 km/hour | 235 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 800 kg | 2300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3570 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1830 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 34 L | 93 L |
