2007 Mercedes-Benz GL vs. 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2007 Mercedes-Benz GL is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 5,461 cc (8 cylinders), 2007 Mercedes-Benz GL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mercedes-Benz GL (383 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 215 more horse power than 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL. (168 HP @ 5750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mercedes-Benz GL should accelerate faster than 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Mercedes-Benz GL weights approximately 1085 kg more than 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2007 Mercedes-Benz GL is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 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, 2007 Mercedes-Benz GL (531 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 291 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL. (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2007 Mercedes-Benz GL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Mercedes-Benz GL | 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | GL | SL |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1971 |
| Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5461 cc | 2778 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 383 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 531 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2445 kg | 1360 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5090 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1930 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1850 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3080 mm | 2410 mm |
