2001 Mercedes-Benz ML vs. 1981 Pontiac Grand Safari
To start off, 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Pontiac Grand Safari. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Pontiac Grand Safari would be higher. At 4,942 cc (8 cylinders), 1981 Pontiac Grand Safari is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML (247 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 98 more horse power than 1981 Pontiac Grand Safari. (149 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML should accelerate faster than 1981 Pontiac Grand Safari. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML weights approximately 535 kg more than 1981 Pontiac Grand Safari. 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 1981 Pontiac Grand Safari. 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 (560 Nm @ 1700 RPM) has 235 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Pontiac Grand Safari. (325 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Pontiac Grand Safari.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML | 1981 Pontiac Grand Safari | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Pontiac |
| Model | ML | Grand Safari |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3994 cc | 4942 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 247 HP | 149 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 560 Nm | 325 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1700 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 101.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 76.2 mm |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 2335 kg | 1800 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 5450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 2020 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1830 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2950 mm |
