2004 Mercedes-Benz ML vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Mercedes-Benz ML. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Mercedes-Benz ML would be higher. At 4,700 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz S (429 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 197 more horse power than 2004 Mercedes-Benz ML. (232 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2004 Mercedes-Benz ML. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 19 kg more than 2004 Mercedes-Benz ML. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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 Mercedes-Benz S (699 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 368 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mercedes-Benz ML. (331 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz S 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 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | ML | S |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2012 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3720 cc | 4700 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 232 HP | 429 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 331 Nm | 699 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2186 kg | 2205 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 5245 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1920 mm | 1872 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1820 mm | 1473 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 3165 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 13.1 L/100km | 9.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 15.7 L/100km | 15.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 86 L | 90 L |
