1981 Mercedes-Benz G vs. 2011 Lexus GX
To start off, 2011 Lexus GX 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 4,600 cc (8 cylinders), 2011 Lexus GX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Lexus GX (301 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 176 more horse power than 1981 Mercedes-Benz G. (125 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Lexus GX should accelerate faster than 1981 Mercedes-Benz G. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Lexus GX weights approximately 492 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.
Both vehicles are four wheel drive (4WD) - it offers better handling, traction, and control in all driving conditions compared with front wheel drive or rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 Lexus GX (446 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 260 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Mercedes-Benz G. (186 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2011 Lexus GX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Mercedes-Benz G. 2011 Lexus GX 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 Lexus GX will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Mercedes-Benz G | 2011 Lexus GX | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Lexus |
| Model | G | GX |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2011 |
| Body Type | SUV | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2299 cc | 4600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 125 HP | 301 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 186 Nm | 446 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1930 kg | 2422 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4690 mm | 4806 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1885 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1940 mm | 1875 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2789 mm |
