2006 Mercedes-Benz R vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz ML
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz R is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mercedes-Benz ML. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mercedes-Benz ML would be higher. At 3,724 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz ML is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz ML (232 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 2006 Mercedes-Benz R. (221 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz ML should accelerate faster than 2006 Mercedes-Benz R. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz R weights approximately 85 kg more than 2003 Mercedes-Benz ML.
Both vehicles are four wheel drive (4WD) - it offers better handling, traction, and control in all driving conditions compared with front wheel drive or rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 R (511 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 166 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mercedes-Benz ML. (345 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz R will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mercedes-Benz ML.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mercedes-Benz R | 2003 Mercedes-Benz ML | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | R | ML |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Minivan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2987 cc | 3724 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 221 HP | 232 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 511 Nm | 345 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 84 mm |
| Top Speed | 215 km/hour | 205 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.8 seconds | 9.1 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 6 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2270 kg | 2185 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5160 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1930 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1660 mm | 1830 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3220 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 83 L |
