1996 Mercedes-Benz S 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 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 5,987 cc (12 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S (389 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 221 more horse power than 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML. (168 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 85 kg more than 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML. 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 Mercedes-Benz S. 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, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S (570 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 200 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML. (370 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML has manual transmission. 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mercedes-Benz S | 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | S | ML |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Coupe | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5987 cc | 2606 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 389 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 570 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80.2 mm | 88.4 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2240 kg | 2155 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5070 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1920 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1830 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2720 mm |
