1988 Mercedes-Benz S 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 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 4,973 cc (8 cylinders), 1988 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Mercedes-Benz S (261 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 51 more horse power than 2009 Mercedes-Benz ML. (210 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2009 Mercedes-Benz ML.
Because 2009 Mercedes-Benz ML is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1988 Mercedes-Benz S. 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 135 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Mercedes-Benz S. (405 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz ML will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Mercedes-Benz S | 2009 Mercedes-Benz ML | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | S | ML |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4973 cc | 2987 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 261 HP | 210 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 405 Nm | 540 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1940 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1820 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2920 mm |
