1981 BMW 528 vs. 2010 Mercedes-Benz GL
To start off, 2010 Mercedes-Benz GL is newer by 29 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 4,700 cc (8 cylinders), 2010 Mercedes-Benz GL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Mercedes-Benz GL (335 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 154 more horse power than 1981 BMW 528. (181 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Mercedes-Benz GL should accelerate faster than 1981 BMW 528. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Mercedes-Benz GL weights approximately 1125 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 2010 Mercedes-Benz GL is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1981 BMW 528. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2010 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, 2010 Mercedes-Benz GL (459 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 219 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 BMW 528. (240 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2010 Mercedes-Benz GL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 BMW 528. 2010 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. 2010 Mercedes-Benz GL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 BMW 528 | 2010 Mercedes-Benz GL | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 528 | GL |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2788 cc | 4700 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 181 HP | 335 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 459 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 2425 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 5095 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1839 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 3076 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 100 L |
