2006 Mercedes-Benz ML vs. 2003 Porsche 996
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz ML is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Porsche 996. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Porsche 996 would be higher. At 3,596 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Porsche 996 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Porsche 996 (317 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 130 more horse power than 2006 Mercedes-Benz ML. (187 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Porsche 996 should accelerate faster than 2006 Mercedes-Benz ML. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz ML weights approximately 669 kg more than 2003 Porsche 996.
Because 2006 Mercedes-Benz ML is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 Porsche 996. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz ML (440 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Porsche 996. (370 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz ML will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Porsche 996.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mercedes-Benz ML | 2003 Porsche 996 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Porsche |
| Model | ML | 996 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2003 |
| Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 2987 cc | 3596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 187 HP | 317 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Torque | 440 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 96 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 82.8 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2154 kg | 1485 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1920 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1820 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2920 mm | 2360 mm |
