1996 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1980 Mercedes-Benz G
To start off, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Mercedes-Benz G. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Mercedes-Benz G would be higher. At 5,987 cc (12 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL (376 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 251 more horse power than 1980 Mercedes-Benz G. (125 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1980 Mercedes-Benz G. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Mercedes-Benz G weights approximately 130 kg more than 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Because 1980 Mercedes-Benz G is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 Mercedes-Benz G 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, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL (580 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 388 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Mercedes-Benz G. (192 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Mercedes-Benz G. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1980 Mercedes-Benz G has manual transmission. 1980 Mercedes-Benz G will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1980 Mercedes-Benz G | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | SL | G |
Year Released | 1996 | 1980 |
Body Type | Convertible | SUV |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 5987 cc | 2299 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 376 HP | 125 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 580 Nm | 192 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1800 kg | 1930 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4690 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1940 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2860 mm |