1985 Mercedes-Benz 260 vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Mercedes-Benz 260. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Mercedes-Benz 260 would be higher. At 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML (269 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 101 more horse power than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 260. (168 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML should accelerate faster than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 260. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML weights approximately 763 kg more than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 260. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 260. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML (350 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 122 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 260. (228 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 260.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Mercedes-Benz 260 | 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 260 | ML |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2599 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 269 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 228 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 212 km/hour | 225 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1422 kg | 2185 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4750 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1830 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2920 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 95 L |
