2005 Mercedes-Benz ML vs. 1981 Volkswagen Santana
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Volkswagen Santana. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Volkswagen Santana would be higher. At 3,724 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML (232 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 179 more horse power than 1981 Volkswagen Santana. (53 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML should accelerate faster than 1981 Volkswagen Santana. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML weights approximately 1160 kg more than 1981 Volkswagen Santana. 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 1981 Volkswagen Santana. 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 (347 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 247 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volkswagen Santana. (100 Nm @ 2300 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volkswagen Santana. 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML has automatic transmission and 1981 Volkswagen Santana has manual transmission. 1981 Volkswagen Santana 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 | 1981 Volkswagen Santana | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | ML | Santana |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1981 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3724 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 232 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 347 Nm | 100 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Top Speed | 205 km/hour | 140 km/hour |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2185 kg | 1025 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1830 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2560 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 83 L | 60 L |
