1998 Mercedes-Benz ML vs. 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300
To start off, 1998 Mercedes-Benz ML is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 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 87 more horse power than 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300. (188 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz ML should accelerate faster than 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz ML weights approximately 450 kg more than 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300. 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 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300. 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 131 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300. (260 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz ML will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mercedes-Benz ML | 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | ML | 300 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4266 cc | 2960 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 275 HP | 188 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 391 Nm | 260 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 88.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 80.3 mm |
| Top Speed | 210 km/hour | 206 km/hour |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1995 kg | 1545 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 5170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 2010 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1810 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 3080 mm |
