1996 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML
To start off, 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Ford Thunderbird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Ford Thunderbird would be higher. At 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML (232 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 94 more horse power than 1996 Ford Thunderbird. (138 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML should accelerate faster than 1996 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML weights approximately 430 kg more than 1996 Ford Thunderbird. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Ford Thunderbird. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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, 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML (344 Nm) has 53 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Ford Thunderbird. (291 Nm). This means 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Ford Thunderbird.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Ford Thunderbird | 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Thunderbird | ML |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3791 cc | 3700 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 232 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 291 Nm | 344 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1620 kg | 2050 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5090 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1830 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2780 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 72 L |
