1981 Lincoln Continental vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz ML
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz ML is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Lincoln Continental. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Lincoln Continental would be higher. At 4,942 cc (8 cylinders), 1981 Lincoln Continental is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz ML (232 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 103 more horse power than 1981 Lincoln Continental. (129 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz ML should accelerate faster than 1981 Lincoln Continental. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz ML weights approximately 331 kg more than 1981 Lincoln Continental. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Mercedes-Benz ML is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1981 Lincoln Continental. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz ML (331 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 18 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Lincoln Continental. (313 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz ML will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Lincoln Continental.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Lincoln Continental | 2004 Mercedes-Benz ML | |
| Make | Lincoln | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Continental | ML |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4942 cc | 3720 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 129 HP | 232 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 313 Nm | 331 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 101.7 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76.2 mm | 84 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1855 kg | 2186 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5570 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1990 mm | 1920 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1820 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2990 mm | 2810 mm |
