2005 Porsche 996 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Porsche 996. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Porsche 996 would be higher. At 3,596 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Porsche 996 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Porsche 996 (317 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 77 more horse power than 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML. (240 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Porsche 996 should accelerate faster than 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML.
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 ML (616 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 246 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Porsche 996. (370 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Porsche 996. 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML has automatic transmission and 2005 Porsche 996 has manual transmission. 2005 Porsche 996 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Porsche 996 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML | |
| Make | Porsche | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 996 | ML |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | SUV |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 3596 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 317 HP | 240 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6800 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 370 Nm | 616 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | 4WD | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4803 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 2141 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1796 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2360 mm | 2916 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 93 L |
