1981 BMW 520 vs. 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL
To start off, 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 BMW 520 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 (357 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 234 more horse power than 1981 BMW 520. (123 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL should accelerate faster than 1981 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL weights approximately 1205 kg more than 1981 BMW 520. 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 1981 BMW 520. 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 (550 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 380 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 BMW 520. (170 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 BMW 520.
Compare all specifications:
1981 BMW 520 | 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL | |
Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | 520 | GL |
Year Released | 1981 | 2013 |
Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1991 cc | 4600 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | electric |
Horse Power | 123 HP | 357 HP |
Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 170 Nm | 550 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 92 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 66 mm | 86 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 10.5:1 |
Top Speed | 185 km/hour | 210 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1220 kg | 2425 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 5120 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 2141 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1850 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 3075 mm |