2007 Mercedes-Benz GL vs. 1978 Volvo 260
To start off, 2007 Mercedes-Benz GL is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Volvo 260. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volvo 260 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 237 more horse power than 1978 Volvo 260. (146 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mercedes-Benz GL should accelerate faster than 1978 Volvo 260. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Mercedes-Benz GL weights approximately 1095 kg more than 1978 Volvo 260. 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 1978 Volvo 260. 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 312 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volvo 260. (219 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2007 Mercedes-Benz GL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volvo 260.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Mercedes-Benz GL | 1978 Volvo 260 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | GL | 260 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5461 cc | 2664 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 383 HP | 146 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 531 Nm | 219 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 98 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.5 mm | 73 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2445 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5090 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1930 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1850 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3080 mm | 2660 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 100 L | 60 L |
