2005 Mercedes-Benz G vs. 1989 Mercedes-Benz 500
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz G is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Mercedes-Benz 500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Mercedes-Benz 500 would be higher. At 4,973 cc (8 cylinders), 1989 Mercedes-Benz 500 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Mercedes-Benz 500 (323 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 175 more horse power than 2005 Mercedes-Benz G. (148 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Mercedes-Benz 500 should accelerate faster than 2005 Mercedes-Benz G. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz G weights approximately 390 kg more than 1989 Mercedes-Benz 500.
Because 2005 Mercedes-Benz G is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1989 Mercedes-Benz 500. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz G 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, 1989 Mercedes-Benz 500 (450 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mercedes-Benz G. (400 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 1989 Mercedes-Benz 500 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mercedes-Benz G.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mercedes-Benz G | 1989 Mercedes-Benz 500 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | G | 500 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2685 cc | 4973 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 323 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 450 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 96.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.4 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 157 km/hour | 249 km/hour |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2280 kg | 1890 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4230 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1940 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 96 L | 80 L |
