2008 Mercedes-Benz GL vs. 1974 Opel Rekord
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Opel Rekord. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Opel Rekord would be higher. At 5,459 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL (383 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 317 more horse power than 1974 Opel Rekord. (66 HP @ 5300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL should accelerate faster than 1974 Opel Rekord. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL weights approximately 1380 kg more than 1974 Opel Rekord. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1974 Opel Rekord. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL (530 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 410 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Opel Rekord. (120 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Opel Rekord. 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL has automatic transmission and 1974 Opel Rekord has manual transmission. 1974 Opel Rekord will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL | 1974 Opel Rekord | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | GL | Rekord |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5459 cc | 1698 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 383 HP | 66 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 530 Nm | 120 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 2445 kg | 1065 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5090 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1930 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1850 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3080 mm | 2680 mm |
