1991 Mercedes-Benz 500 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz GL
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz GL is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Mercedes-Benz 500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Mercedes-Benz 500 would be higher. At 4,971 cc (8 cylinders), 1991 Mercedes-Benz 500 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Mercedes-Benz 500 (326 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 116 more horse power than 2012 Mercedes-Benz GL. (210 HP @ 3400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1991 Mercedes-Benz 500 should accelerate faster than 2012 Mercedes-Benz GL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz GL weights approximately 488 kg more than 1991 Mercedes-Benz 500.
Because 2012 Mercedes-Benz GL is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1991 Mercedes-Benz 500. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz GL (542 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 62 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Mercedes-Benz 500. (480 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz GL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Mercedes-Benz 500.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Mercedes-Benz 500 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz GL | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 500 | GL |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4971 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 326 HP | 210 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Torque | 480 Nm | 542 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2012 kg | 2500 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5220 mm | 5098 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1989 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1839 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3150 mm | 3076 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 100 L |
