2011 Mercedes-Benz ML vs. 1974 Pontiac Firebird

To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz ML is newer by 37 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 5,792 cc (8 cylinders), 1974 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz ML (268 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 110 more horse power than 1974 Pontiac Firebird. (158 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz ML should accelerate faster than 1974 Pontiac Firebird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mercedes-Benz ML weights approximately 515 kg more than 1974 Pontiac Firebird. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2011 Mercedes-Benz ML is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1974 Pontiac Firebird. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 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, 1974 Pontiac Firebird (366 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Mercedes-Benz ML. (349 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1974 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Mercedes-Benz ML.

Compare all specifications:

2011 Mercedes-Benz ML 1974 Pontiac Firebird
Make Mercedes-Benz Pontiac
Model ML Firebird
Year Released 2011 1974
Body Type SUV Coupe
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3500 cc 5792 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 8 cylinders
Engine Type V V
Horse Power 268 HP 158 HP
Engine RPM 6000 RPM 4400 RPM
Torque 349 Nm 366 Nm
Torque RPM 2400 RPM 2000 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type 4WD Rear
Number of Seats 5 seats 4 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 2100 kg 1585 kg
Vehicle Length 4780 mm 4880 mm
Vehicle Width 1910 mm 1870 mm
Vehicle Height 1816 mm 1290 mm
Wheelbase Size 2913 mm 2750 mm