2006 Mercedes-Benz GL vs. 1996 Opel Frontera
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Opel Frontera. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Opel Frontera would be higher. At 2,987 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL (221 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 87 more horse power than 1996 Opel Frontera. (134 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL should accelerate faster than 1996 Opel Frontera. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL weights approximately 815 kg more than 1996 Opel Frontera. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are four wheel drive (4WD) - it offers better handling, traction, and control in all driving conditions compared with front wheel drive or rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 308 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Opel Frontera. (202 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Opel Frontera. 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL has automatic transmission and 1996 Opel Frontera has manual transmission. 1996 Opel Frontera 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 | 1996 Opel Frontera | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | GL | Frontera |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1996 |
| Body Type | SUV | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2987 cc | 2195 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 221 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 510 Nm | 202 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2454 kg | 1639 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5090 mm | 4700 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1930 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1850 mm | 1760 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3080 mm | 2710 mm |
