2001 Mercedes-Benz ML vs. 1981 Talbot Samba
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 Talbot Samba. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Talbot Samba 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 119 more horse power than 1981 Talbot Samba. (49 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML should accelerate faster than 1981 Talbot Samba. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML weights approximately 1415 kg more than 1981 Talbot Samba. 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 Talbot Samba. 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 285 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Talbot Samba. (85 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Talbot Samba.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML | 1981 Talbot Samba | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Talbot |
| Model | ML | Samba |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2606 cc | 1123 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 49 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 370 Nm | 85 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.4 mm | 69 mm |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2155 kg | 740 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 3520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1540 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1830 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2350 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 83 L | 40 L |
