2006 Mercedes-Benz GL vs. 1997 Pontiac Sunfire
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Pontiac Sunfire. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Pontiac Sunfire would be higher. At 4,663 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL (335 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 221 more horse power than 1997 Pontiac Sunfire. (114 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL should accelerate faster than 1997 Pontiac Sunfire. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL weights approximately 1230 kg more than 1997 Pontiac Sunfire. 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 1997 Pontiac Sunfire. 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 (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 277 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Pontiac Sunfire. (183 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Pontiac Sunfire. 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL has automatic transmission and 1997 Pontiac Sunfire has manual transmission. 1997 Pontiac Sunfire 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 | 1997 Pontiac Sunfire | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Pontiac |
| Model | GL | Sunfire |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1997 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4663 cc | 2200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 335 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 460 Nm | 183 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2430 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5090 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1930 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1850 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3080 mm | 2650 mm |
