1988 Ford Fairlane vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz ML
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz ML is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Ford Fairlane. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Ford Fairlane would be higher. At 4,089 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 Ford Fairlane is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz ML (210 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 72 more horse power than 1988 Ford Fairlane. (138 HP @ 3750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz ML should accelerate faster than 1988 Ford Fairlane.
Because 2009 Mercedes-Benz ML is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1988 Ford Fairlane. 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 (540 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 236 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Ford Fairlane. (304 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz ML will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Ford Fairlane. 2009 Mercedes-Benz ML has automatic transmission and 1988 Ford Fairlane has manual transmission. 1988 Ford Fairlane 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:
| 1988 Ford Fairlane | 2009 Mercedes-Benz ML | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Fairlane | ML |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4089 cc | 2987 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 210 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3750 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 304 Nm | 540 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Length | 5020 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1940 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1820 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2920 mm |
