1998 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 5,461 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL (384 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 82 more horse power than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. (302 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL should accelerate faster than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL weights approximately 555 kg more than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. 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 (530 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 69 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. (461 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | SL | GL |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Convertible | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4966 cc | 5461 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 302 HP | 384 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 461 Nm | 530 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 98 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 90.5 mm |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 240 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.5 seconds | 6.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1890 kg | 2445 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 5090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1850 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 3080 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 12.7 L/100km | 13.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 100 L |
