2003 Mercedes-Benz ML vs. 2012 Nissan Xterra
To start off, 2012 Nissan Xterra is newer by 9 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 4,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Nissan Xterra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Nissan Xterra (261 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 2003 Mercedes-Benz ML. (232 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Nissan Xterra 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 185 kg more than 2012 Nissan Xterra.
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, 2012 Nissan Xterra (381 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 36 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mercedes-Benz ML. (345 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Nissan Xterra 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 | 2012 Nissan Xterra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Nissan |
| Model | ML | Xterra |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2012 |
| Body Type | SUV | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3724 cc | 4000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 232 HP | 261 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 345 Nm | 381 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 5-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2185 kg | 2000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4539 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1849 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1830 mm | 1902 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 83 L | 80 L |
