1981 Mercedes-Benz G vs. 2011 BMW 550
To start off, 2011 BMW 550 is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Mercedes-Benz G. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Mercedes-Benz G would be higher. At 4,400 cc (8 cylinders), 2011 BMW 550 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 BMW 550 (400 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 275 more horse power than 1981 Mercedes-Benz G. (125 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW 550 should accelerate faster than 1981 Mercedes-Benz G. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 BMW 550 weights approximately 170 kg more than 1981 Mercedes-Benz G. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2011 BMW 550 (609 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 416 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Mercedes-Benz G. (193 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2011 BMW 550 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Mercedes-Benz G. 2011 BMW 550 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. 2011 BMW 550 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Mercedes-Benz G | 2011 BMW 550 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | BMW |
| Model | G | 550 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2011 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2307 cc | 4400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 125 HP | 400 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 193 Nm | 609 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | 4WD | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1880 kg | 2050 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4240 mm | 4905 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1859 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1940 mm | 1463 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2969 mm |
