2004 Mercedes-Benz ML vs. 1996 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz ML is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 5,733 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Pontiac Firebird (257 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 2004 Mercedes-Benz ML. (232 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 2004 Mercedes-Benz ML. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz ML weights approximately 651 kg more than 1996 Pontiac Firebird.
Because 2004 Mercedes-Benz ML is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Pontiac Firebird. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 1996 Pontiac Firebird (420 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 89 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mercedes-Benz ML. (331 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1996 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mercedes-Benz ML.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mercedes-Benz ML | 1996 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Pontiac |
| Model | ML | Firebird |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1996 |
| Body Type | SUV | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3720 cc | 5733 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 232 HP | 257 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 331 Nm | 420 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2186 kg | 1535 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1920 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1820 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2570 mm |
