2006 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1997 Mercedes-Benz ML
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mercedes-Benz ML. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mercedes-Benz ML would be higher. At 4,965 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz S (302 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 87 more horse power than 1997 Mercedes-Benz ML. (215 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1997 Mercedes-Benz ML. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz ML weights approximately 99 kg more than 2006 Mercedes-Benz S.
Because 1997 Mercedes-Benz ML is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2006 Mercedes-Benz S. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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 S (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 150 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mercedes-Benz ML. (310 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mercedes-Benz ML.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mercedes-Benz S | 1997 Mercedes-Benz ML | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | S | ML |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4965 cc | 3199 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 302 HP | 215 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 460 Nm | 310 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1891 kg | 1990 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5170 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1810 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3090 mm | 2830 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 88 L | 72 L |
