2003 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mercedes-Benz E. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mercedes-Benz E would be higher. At 5,461 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL (382 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 206 more horse power than 2003 Mercedes-Benz E. (176 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL should accelerate faster than 2003 Mercedes-Benz E. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL weights approximately 1000 kg more than 2003 Mercedes-Benz E. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 Mercedes-Benz E. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL (530 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 130 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mercedes-Benz E. (400 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mercedes-Benz E. 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL has automatic transmission and 2003 Mercedes-Benz E has manual transmission. 2003 Mercedes-Benz E will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mercedes-Benz E | 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | E | GL |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2685 cc | 5461 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 176 HP | 382 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 530 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1830 kg | 2830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 5100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1850 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 3080 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 100 L |
