1974 Lincoln Continental vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Lincoln Continental. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Lincoln Continental would be higher. At 7,541 cc (8 cylinders), 1974 Lincoln Continental is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL (221 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 1974 Lincoln Continental. (217 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL should accelerate faster than 1974 Lincoln Continental. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL weights approximately 130 kg more than 1974 Lincoln Continental. 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 1974 Lincoln Continental. 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 22 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Lincoln Continental. (488 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Lincoln Continental.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Lincoln Continental | 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL | |
| Make | Lincoln | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Continental | GL |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 7541 cc | 2987 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 221 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 488 Nm | 510 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 2330 kg | 2460 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5720 mm | 5090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2020 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1930 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3230 mm | 3080 mm |
