2001 Mercedes-Benz ML vs. 1978 Mercedes-Benz 600
To start off, 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mercedes-Benz 600. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mercedes-Benz 600 would be higher. At 6,329 cc (8 cylinders), 1978 Mercedes-Benz 600 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML (342 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 95 more horse power than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 600. (247 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML should accelerate faster than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 600. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Mercedes-Benz 600 weights approximately 470 kg more than 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML.
Because 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 600. 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 (510 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 600. (500 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 600.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML | 1978 Mercedes-Benz 600 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | ML | 600 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5438 cc | 6329 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 342 HP | 247 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 510 Nm | 500 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 103 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 95 mm |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 2300 kg | 2770 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 6250 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1960 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1830 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 3910 mm |
