2006 Mercedes-Benz GL vs. 1978 Porsche 911
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Porsche 911. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Porsche 911 would be higher. At 2,994 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Porsche 911 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL (221 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 1978 Porsche 911. (185 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL should accelerate faster than 1978 Porsche 911. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL weights approximately 1274 kg more than 1978 Porsche 911. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 Porsche 911. 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 245 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Porsche 911. (265 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Porsche 911. 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL has automatic transmission and 1978 Porsche 911 has manual transmission. 1978 Porsche 911 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL | 1978 Porsche 911 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Porsche |
| Model | GL | 911 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1978 |
| Body Type | SUV | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 2987 cc | 2994 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | boxer |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 221 HP | 185 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 510 Nm | 265 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 6 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2454 kg | 1180 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5090 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1930 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1850 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3080 mm | 2280 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 100 L | 80 L |
