2006 Mercedes-Benz GL vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL would be higher. At 5,500 cc (12 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz S (510 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 289 more horse power than 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL. (221 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL weights approximately 204 kg more than 2012 Mercedes-Benz S.
Because 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2012 Mercedes-Benz S. 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz S (829 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 319 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL. (510 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL | 2012 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | GL | S |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2012 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2987 cc | 5500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 221 HP | 510 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 510 Nm | 829 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 5-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 6 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2454 kg | 2250 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5090 mm | 5245 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1930 mm | 1872 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1850 mm | 1473 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3080 mm | 3165 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 100 L | 90 L |
