1986 GMC Suburban vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 GMC Suburban. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 GMC Suburban would be higher. At 6,208 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL (518 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 364 more horse power than 1986 GMC Suburban. (154 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1986 GMC Suburban. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 GMC Suburban weights approximately 1000 kg more than 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Because 1986 GMC Suburban is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 GMC Suburban 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL (630 Nm @ 5200 RPM) has 318 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 GMC Suburban. (312 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 GMC Suburban.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 GMC Suburban | 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | GMC | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Suburban | SL |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2009 |
| Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4300 cc | 6208 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 154 HP | 518 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Torque | 312 Nm | 630 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 2240 kg | 1240 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5480 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1950 mm | 1480 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1800 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3300 mm | 2570 mm |
