1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz GLK
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz GLK is newer by 27 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 4,196 cc (8 cylinders), 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz GLK (268 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420. (218 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz GLK should accelerate faster than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz GLK weights approximately 250 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 2012 Mercedes-Benz GLK is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz GLK 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz GLK (349 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420. (329 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz GLK 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 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz GLK | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 420 | GLK |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4196 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 218 HP | 268 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 329 Nm | 349 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1600 kg | 1850 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5070 mm | 4529 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1887 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1699 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2756 mm |
