1993 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1993 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1993 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 5,987 cc (12 cylinders), 1993 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1993 Mercedes-Benz S (389 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 86 more horse power than 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL. (303 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1993 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL weights approximately 370 kg more than 1993 Mercedes-Benz S.
Because 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1993 Mercedes-Benz S. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL (700 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 130 more torque (in Nm) than 1993 Mercedes-Benz S. (570 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1993 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
| 1993 Mercedes-Benz S | 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | S | GL |
| Year Released | 1993 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5987 cc | 3996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 389 HP | 303 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 570 Nm | 700 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80.2 mm | 86 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2180 kg | 2550 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5070 mm | 5090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1850 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 3080 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 100 L |
