2008 Mercedes-Benz GL vs. 1996 Mercedes-Benz V
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercedes-Benz V. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz V 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 244 more horse power than 1996 Mercedes-Benz V. (139 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL should accelerate faster than 1996 Mercedes-Benz V. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL weights approximately 445 kg more than 1996 Mercedes-Benz V. 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 1996 Mercedes-Benz V. 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 319 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mercedes-Benz V. (211 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mercedes-Benz V. 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL has automatic transmission and 1996 Mercedes-Benz V has manual transmission. 1996 Mercedes-Benz V 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 | 1996 Mercedes-Benz V | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | GL | V |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1996 |
| Body Type | SUV | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5459 cc | 2295 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 383 HP | 139 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 530 Nm | 211 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2445 kg | 2000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5090 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1930 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1850 mm | 1850 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3080 mm | 3010 mm |
