1954 Austin-Healey 100 vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL is newer by 54 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1954 Austin-Healey 100. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1954 Austin-Healey 100 would be higher. At 3,996 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL (303 HP @ 3600 RPM) has 213 more horse power than 1954 Austin-Healey 100. (90 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL should accelerate faster than 1954 Austin-Healey 100. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL weights approximately 1605 kg more than 1954 Austin-Healey 100. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1954 Austin-Healey 100. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL (700 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 556 more torque (in Nm) than 1954 Austin-Healey 100. (144 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1954 Austin-Healey 100. 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL has automatic transmission and 1954 Austin-Healey 100 has manual transmission. 1954 Austin-Healey 100 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1954 Austin-Healey 100 | 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL | |
| Make | Austin-Healey | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 100 | GL |
| Year Released | 1954 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2660 cc | 3996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 303 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 144 Nm | 700 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.3 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 111.1 mm | 86 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 945 kg | 2550 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3860 mm | 5090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1850 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2290 mm | 3080 mm |
