1999 Mercedes-Benz ML vs. 1980 Mercedes-Benz 500
To start off, 1999 Mercedes-Benz ML is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Mercedes-Benz 500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Mercedes-Benz 500 would be higher. At 4,972 cc (8 cylinders), 1980 Mercedes-Benz 500 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Mercedes-Benz 500 (242 HP @ 4750 RPM) has 81 more horse power than 1999 Mercedes-Benz ML. (161 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1980 Mercedes-Benz 500 should accelerate faster than 1999 Mercedes-Benz ML. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Mercedes-Benz ML weights approximately 615 kg more than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 500.
Because 1999 Mercedes-Benz ML is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 500. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 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, 1980 Mercedes-Benz 500 (401 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 24 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Mercedes-Benz ML. (377 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 1980 Mercedes-Benz 500 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Mercedes-Benz ML. 1980 Mercedes-Benz 500 has automatic transmission and 1999 Mercedes-Benz ML has manual transmission. 1999 Mercedes-Benz ML will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1980 Mercedes-Benz 500 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Mercedes-Benz ML | 1980 Mercedes-Benz 500 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | ML | 500 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2601 cc | 4972 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 161 HP | 242 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 4750 RPM |
| Torque | 377 Nm | 401 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 180 km/hour | 220 km/hour |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2155 kg | 1540 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1830 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 72 L | 90 L |
