1980 Mercedes-Benz G vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Mercedes-Benz G. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Mercedes-Benz G would be higher. At 5,980 cc (12 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL (604 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 479 more horse power than 1980 Mercedes-Benz G. (125 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1980 Mercedes-Benz G. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 180 kg more than 1980 Mercedes-Benz G. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1980 Mercedes-Benz G is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 Mercedes-Benz G 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL (1,001 Nm) has 809 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Mercedes-Benz G. (192 Nm). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Mercedes-Benz G.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Mercedes-Benz G | 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | G | SL |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2005 |
| Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2297 cc | 5980 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 125 HP | 604 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 192 Nm | 1001 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.5 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80.2 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1880 kg | 2060 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4240 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1940 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2570 mm |
