1972 Honda Civic 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 Honda Civic. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Honda Civic would be higher. At 2,987 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL (210 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 157 more horse power than 1972 Honda Civic. (53 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL should accelerate faster than 1972 Honda Civic. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL weights approximately 547 kg more than 1972 Honda Civic. 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 Honda Civic. 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 (540 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 461 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Honda Civic. (79 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Honda Civic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Honda Civic | 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL | |
| Make | Honda | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Civic | GL |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1169 cc | 2987 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 210 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 79 Nm | 540 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 678 kg | 1225 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3570 mm | 5100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1850 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2210 mm | 3080 mm |
