2003 Mercedes-Benz ML vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz R
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz R is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mercedes-Benz ML. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mercedes-Benz ML would be higher. At 3,724 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz ML is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz R (268 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 2003 Mercedes-Benz ML. (232 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz R should accelerate faster than 2003 Mercedes-Benz ML. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz ML weights approximately 1040 kg more than 2008 Mercedes-Benz R.
Both vehicles are four wheel drive (4WD) - it offers better handling, traction, and control in all driving conditions compared with front wheel drive or rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz R (350 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mercedes-Benz ML. (345 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz R will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mercedes-Benz ML.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mercedes-Benz ML | 2008 Mercedes-Benz R | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | ML | R |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2008 |
| Body Type | SUV | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3724 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 232 HP | 268 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 345 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 6 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2185 kg | 1145 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 5160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1830 mm | 1660 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 3220 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 83 L | 80 L |
