1981 BMW 528 vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 BMW 528. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 BMW 528 would be higher. At 2,987 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL (216 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 1981 BMW 528. (181 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL should accelerate faster than 1981 BMW 528. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL weights approximately 1159 kg more than 1981 BMW 528. 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 1981 BMW 528. 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 (540 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 300 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 BMW 528. (240 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 BMW 528. 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL has automatic transmission and 1981 BMW 528 has manual transmission. 1981 BMW 528 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1981 BMW 528 | 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL | |
Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | 528 | GL |
Year Released | 1981 | 2008 |
Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2788 cc | 2987 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 181 HP | 216 HP |
Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 240 Nm | 540 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 1600 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.3:1 | 11.0:1 |
Top Speed | 212 km/hour | 210 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 2459 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 5090 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1930 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1850 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 3080 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 100 L |