1980 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL
To start off, 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 4,600 cc (8 cylinders), 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL (423 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 205 more horse power than 1980 Mercedes-Benz S. (218 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL should accelerate faster than 1980 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL weights approximately 850 kg more than 1980 Mercedes-Benz S. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1980 Mercedes-Benz S. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2013 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, 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL (700 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 394 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Mercedes-Benz S. (306 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Mercedes-Benz S. 1980 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL has manual transmission. 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1980 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Mercedes-Benz S | 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | S | GL |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3818 cc | 4600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | electric |
| Horse Power | 218 HP | 423 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 306 Nm | 700 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71.8 mm | 86 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1595 kg | 2445 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 5120 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 2141 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1850 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 3075 mm |
