2005 Mercedes-Benz ML vs. 1966 Wartburg 312
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML is newer by 39 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 Wartburg 312. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Wartburg 312 would be higher. At 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML (288 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 251 more horse power than 1966 Wartburg 312. (37 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML should accelerate faster than 1966 Wartburg 312. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML weights approximately 1254 kg more than 1966 Wartburg 312. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1966 Wartburg 312. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 378 more torque (in Nm) than 1966 Wartburg 312. (82 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1966 Wartburg 312.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML | 1966 Wartburg 312 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Wartburg |
| Model | ML | 312 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1966 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4966 cc | 900 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 288 HP | 37 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 460 Nm | 82 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 70 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 6.6:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 2214 kg | 960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4310 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1830 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2460 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 83 L | 43 L |
