1989 Ford Fairlane vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Ford Fairlane. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Ford Fairlane would be higher. At 3,949 cc (6 cylinders), 1989 Ford Fairlane is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL (221 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 1989 Ford Fairlane. (186 HP @ 4250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL should accelerate faster than 1989 Ford Fairlane. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL weights approximately 900 kg more than 1989 Ford Fairlane. 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 1989 Ford Fairlane. 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 (510 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 172 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Ford Fairlane. (338 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Ford Fairlane.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Ford Fairlane | 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Fairlane | GL |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3949 cc | 2987 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 186 HP | 221 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4250 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 338 Nm | 510 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 2460 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 5090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1930 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2930 mm | 3080 mm |
