1981 Mercedes-Benz G vs. 1968 Opel Diplomat
To start off, 1981 Mercedes-Benz G is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Opel Diplomat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Opel Diplomat would be higher. At 5,354 cc (8 cylinders), 1968 Opel Diplomat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1968 Opel Diplomat (227 HP @ 4700 RPM) has 102 more horse power than 1981 Mercedes-Benz G. (125 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1968 Opel Diplomat should accelerate faster than 1981 Mercedes-Benz G. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Mercedes-Benz G weights approximately 190 kg more than 1968 Opel Diplomat.
Because 1981 Mercedes-Benz G is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1968 Opel Diplomat. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 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, 1968 Opel Diplomat (427 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 234 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Mercedes-Benz G. (193 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1968 Opel Diplomat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Mercedes-Benz G. 1968 Opel Diplomat has automatic transmission and 1981 Mercedes-Benz G has manual transmission. 1981 Mercedes-Benz G will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1968 Opel Diplomat will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Mercedes-Benz G | 1968 Opel Diplomat | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | G | Diplomat |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1968 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2307 cc | 5354 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 125 HP | 227 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Torque | 193 Nm | 427 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.5 mm | 101.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80.2 mm | 82.6 mm |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1880 kg | 1690 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4240 mm | 4960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1940 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2850 mm |
