1997 Ford F-150 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz GL
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz GL is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Ford F-150. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Ford F-150 would be higher. At 5,500 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz GL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz GL (382 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 126 more horse power than 1997 Ford F-150. (256 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz GL should accelerate faster than 1997 Ford F-150. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz GL weights approximately 380 kg more than 1997 Ford F-150. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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 (530 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 63 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Ford F-150. (467 Nm @ 2300 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz GL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Ford F-150. 2012 Mercedes-Benz GL has automatic transmission and 1997 Ford F-150 has manual transmission. 1997 Ford F-150 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Mercedes-Benz GL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Ford F-150 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz GL | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | F-150 | GL |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Pickup | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5406 cc | 5500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 256 HP | 382 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 467 Nm | 530 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2300 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 3 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 2135 kg | 2515 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5230 mm | 5098 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2000 mm | 1989 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1850 mm | 1839 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3050 mm | 3076 mm |
