2003 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 3,724 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S (247 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL. (221 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL weights approximately 644 kg more than 2003 Mercedes-Benz S.
Because 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 Mercedes-Benz S. 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 (510 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 160 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mercedes-Benz S. (350 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mercedes-Benz S | 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | S | GL |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3724 cc | 2987 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 247 HP | 221 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 510 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.9 seconds | 9.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 6 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1810 kg | 2454 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 5090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1850 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 3080 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.2 L/100km | 9.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 88 L | 100 L |
