1972 Ford Gran Torino vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL is newer by 37 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Ford Gran Torino. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Ford Gran Torino would be higher. At 6,553 cc (8 cylinders), 1972 Ford Gran Torino is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL (221 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 1972 Ford Gran Torino. (168 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL should accelerate faster than 1972 Ford Gran Torino. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL weights approximately 446 kg more than 1972 Ford Gran Torino. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1972 Ford Gran Torino. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL (510 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 107 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Ford Gran Torino. (403 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Ford Gran Torino.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Ford Gran Torino | 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Gran Torino | GL |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 6553 cc | 2987 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 221 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 403 Nm | 510 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 101.6 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 101.6 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.4:1 | 17.7:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2014 kg | 2460 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5470 mm | 5090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2010 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1930 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3000 mm | 3080 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 76 L | 100 L |
