1981 Mercedes-Benz G vs. 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 32 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), 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL (423 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 298 more horse power than 1981 Mercedes-Benz G. (125 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 95 kg more than 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Because 1981 Mercedes-Benz G is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL. 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, 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL (700 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 507 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Mercedes-Benz G. (193 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Mercedes-Benz G.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Mercedes-Benz G | 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | G | SL |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2013 |
| Body Type | SUV | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2307 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 | 423 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 193 Nm | 700 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.5 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80.2 mm | 86 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 4-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1880 kg | 1785 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4240 mm | 4612 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 2099 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1940 mm | 1315 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2585 mm |
