2001 Mercedes-Benz ML vs. 1978 Renault 4
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 Renault 4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Renault 4 would be higher. At 2,606 cc (5 cylinders), 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML (168 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 134 more horse power than 1978 Renault 4. (34 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML should accelerate faster than 1978 Renault 4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML weights approximately 1440 kg more than 1978 Renault 4. 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 1978 Renault 4. 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 (370 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 298 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Renault 4. (72 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Renault 4.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML | 1978 Renault 4 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Renault |
| Model | ML | 4 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2606 cc | 1108 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 34 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 370 Nm | 72 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 70 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.4 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 2155 kg | 715 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 3670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1490 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1830 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2410 mm |
