1996 BMW 840 vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW 840. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 840 would be higher. At 5,461 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL (382 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 100 more horse power than 1996 BMW 840. (282 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW 840.
Because 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 BMW 840. 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 (530 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW 840. (440 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW 840.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW 840 | 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 840 | GL |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4398 cc | 5461 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 282 HP | 382 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 440 Nm | 530 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 5100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1870 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 3080 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 100 L |
