1990 Suzuki Samurai vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Suzuki Samurai. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Suzuki Samurai would be higher. At 5,461 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML (518 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 449 more horse power than 1990 Suzuki Samurai. (69 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML should accelerate faster than 1990 Suzuki Samurai. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML weights approximately 1415 kg more than 1990 Suzuki Samurai. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML (699 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 596 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Suzuki Samurai. (103 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Suzuki Samurai. 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML has automatic transmission and 1990 Suzuki Samurai has manual transmission. 1990 Suzuki Samurai will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 Suzuki Samurai | 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML | |
| Make | Suzuki | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Samurai | ML |
| Year Released | 1990 | 2012 |
| Body Type | SUV | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1298 cc | 5461 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 69 HP | 518 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 103 Nm | 699 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 930 kg | 2345 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3450 mm | 4803 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 2141 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1670 mm | 1796 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2916 mm |
