1978 Buick Regal vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Buick Regal. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Buick Regal would be higher. At 3,996 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL (302 HP @ 3600 RPM) has 198 more horse power than 1978 Buick Regal. (104 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL should accelerate faster than 1978 Buick Regal. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL weights approximately 1120 kg more than 1978 Buick Regal. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 Buick Regal. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL (700 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 482 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Buick Regal. (218 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Buick Regal.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Buick Regal | 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL | |
| Make | Buick | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Regal | GL |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3214 cc | 3996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 218 Nm | 700 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1430 kg | 2550 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5090 mm | 5090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1850 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2750 mm | 3080 mm |
