2005 Mercedes-Benz ML vs. 1978 Renault 18
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Renault 18. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Renault 18 would be higher. At 2,987 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML (221 HP @ 3500 RPM) has 117 more horse power than 1978 Renault 18. (104 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML should accelerate faster than 1978 Renault 18. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML weights approximately 1083 kg more than 1978 Renault 18. 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 1978 Renault 18. 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 (510 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 350 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Renault 18. (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Renault 18. 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML has automatic transmission and 1978 Renault 18 has manual transmission. 1978 Renault 18 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML | 1978 Renault 18 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Renault |
| Model | ML | 18 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2987 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 221 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 510 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Top Speed | 210 km/hour | 171 km/hour |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2150 kg | 1067 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1920 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1820 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 95 L | 53 L |
