2003 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL is newer by 5 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 5,513 cc (12 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S (493 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 110 more horse power than 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL. (383 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL weights approximately 385 kg more than 2003 Mercedes-Benz S.
Because 2008 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, 2008 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S (800 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 270 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL. (530 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mercedes-Benz S | 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | S | GL |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5513 cc | 5459 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 493 HP | 383 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 800 Nm | 530 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2060 kg | 2445 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5170 mm | 5090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1850 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3090 mm | 3080 mm |
