1998 Mercedes-Benz ML vs. 1981 Buick Century
To start off, 1998 Mercedes-Benz ML is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Buick Century. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Buick Century would be higher. At 4,266 cc (8 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz ML is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz ML (275 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 171 more horse power than 1981 Buick Century. (104 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz ML should accelerate faster than 1981 Buick Century. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz ML weights approximately 565 kg more than 1981 Buick Century. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 Mercedes-Benz ML is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1981 Buick Century. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz ML (391 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 173 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Buick Century. (218 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz ML will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Buick Century.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mercedes-Benz ML | 1981 Buick Century | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Buick |
| Model | ML | Century |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1981 |
| Body Type | SUV | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4266 cc | 3214 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 275 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 391 Nm | 218 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1995 kg | 1430 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4990 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1810 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2760 mm |
