2008 Mercedes-Benz ML vs. 2011 Ford Flex
To start off, 2011 Ford Flex is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Ford Flex is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Ford Flex (262 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 95 more horse power than 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML. (167 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Ford Flex should accelerate faster than 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML weights approximately 147 kg more than 2011 Ford Flex.
Because 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Ford Flex, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML (400 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 64 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Ford Flex. (336 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Ford Flex.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML | 2011 Ford Flex | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Ford |
| Model | ML | Flex |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2011 |
| Body Type | SUV | Crossover |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2685 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 167 HP | 262 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 336 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2175 kg | 2028 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 5126 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1928 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1850 mm | 1727 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2995 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 83 L | 70 L |
