1996 BMW 740 vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW 740. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 740 would be higher. At 4,398 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 BMW 740 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW 740 (282 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 61 more horse power than 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL. (221 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW 740 should accelerate faster than 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL weights approximately 509 kg more than 1996 BMW 740.
Because 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 BMW 740. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL (510 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW 740. (420 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW 740.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW 740 | 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 740 | GL |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4398 cc | 2987 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 282 HP | 221 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 420 Nm | 510 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 201 km/hour | 210 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 6 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1945 kg | 2454 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5130 mm | 5090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1850 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3080 mm | 3080 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 100 L |
