2004 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz GL
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz GL is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL (302 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 92 more horse power than 2011 Mercedes-Benz GL. (210 HP @ 3400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2011 Mercedes-Benz GL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mercedes-Benz GL weights approximately 620 kg more than 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Because 2011 Mercedes-Benz GL is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz GL (542 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 82 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL. (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz GL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2011 Mercedes-Benz GL | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | SL | GL |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Convertible | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4966 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 302 HP | 210 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Torque | 460 Nm | 542 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1880 kg | 2500 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 5098 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1989 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1839 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 3076 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 100 L |
