1990 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 4,662 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL (335 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 107 more horse power than 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL. (228 HP @ 6400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL should accelerate faster than 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 465 kg more than 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL.
Because 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL. 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 (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 193 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL. (267 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL. 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL has automatic transmission and 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL has manual transmission. 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL 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:
| 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | SL | GL |
| Year Released | 1990 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Convertible | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2962 cc | 4662 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 335 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 267 Nm | 460 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1690 kg | 1225 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 5100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1850 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 3080 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 100 L |
