1987 Mercedes-Benz 230 vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz ML
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz ML is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230 would be higher. At 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz ML is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz ML (268 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 138 more horse power than 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230. (130 HP @ 5100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz ML should accelerate faster than 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz ML weights approximately 845 kg more than 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Mercedes-Benz ML is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz ML (350 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 152 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230. (198 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz ML will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230. 2009 Mercedes-Benz ML has automatic transmission and 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230 has manual transmission. 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Mercedes-Benz ML will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230 | 2009 Mercedes-Benz ML | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 230 | ML |
| Year Released | 1987 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2297 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 130 HP | 268 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 198 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.5 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80.3 mm | 86 mm |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.6 seconds | 8.4 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1340 kg | 2185 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4660 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 2130 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1820 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2920 mm |
| Fuel Consumption City | 11.1 L/100km | 15.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.8 L/100km | 11.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 95 L |
