1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 would be higher. At 4,663 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL (335 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 117 more horse power than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420. (218 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL should accelerate faster than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL weights approximately 830 kg more than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 131 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420. (329 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 | 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 420 | GL |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4196 cc | 4663 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 218 HP | 335 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 329 Nm | 460 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.7:1 |
| Top Speed | 212 km/hour | 230 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9 seconds | 7.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1600 kg | 2430 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5070 mm | 5090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1850 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 3080 mm |
