1988 Fiat Panda vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Fiat Panda. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Fiat Panda would be higher. At 2,987 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL (210 HP) has 177 more horse power than 1988 Fiat Panda. (33 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL should accelerate faster than 1988 Fiat Panda. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL weights approximately 545 kg more than 1988 Fiat Panda. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1988 Fiat Panda. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL (540 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 482 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Fiat Panda. (58 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Fiat Panda. 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL has automatic transmission and 1988 Fiat Panda has manual transmission. 1988 Fiat Panda will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Fiat Panda | 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL | |
| Make | Fiat | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Panda | GL |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 770 cc | 2987 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 33 HP | 210 HP |
| Torque | 58 Nm | 540 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 680 kg | 1225 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 5100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1500 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1850 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2170 mm | 3080 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 100 L |
