1976 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Mercedes-Benz E. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Mercedes-Benz E would be higher. At 4,662 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL (335 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 241 more horse power than 1976 Mercedes-Benz E. (94 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL should accelerate faster than 1976 Mercedes-Benz E. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL weights approximately 1100 kg more than 1976 Mercedes-Benz E. 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 1976 Mercedes-Benz E. 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 (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 301 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Mercedes-Benz E. (159 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Mercedes-Benz E.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Mercedes-Benz E | 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | E | GL |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1988 cc | 4662 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 94 HP | 335 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 159 Nm | 460 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 92.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.7:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1330 kg | 2430 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4700 mm | 5090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1850 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 3080 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 100 L |
