1986 Mercedes-Benz 420 vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420 would be higher. At 4,196 cc (8 cylinders), 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420 (231 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML. (221 HP @ 3500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420 should accelerate faster than 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML weights approximately 525 kg more than 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420.
Because 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML (510 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 183 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420. (327 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420 | 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 420 | ML |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4196 cc | 2987 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 231 HP | 221 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 327 Nm | 510 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Top Speed | 204 km/hour | 210 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 | 1625 kg | 2150 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5170 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2010 mm | 1920 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1820 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3080 mm | 2860 mm |
