2008 Mercedes-Benz GL vs. 1998 Oldsmobile Alero
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Oldsmobile Alero. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Oldsmobile Alero would be higher. At 2,987 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL (216 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 68 more horse power than 1998 Oldsmobile Alero. (148 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL should accelerate faster than 1998 Oldsmobile Alero. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL weights approximately 1089 kg more than 1998 Oldsmobile Alero. 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 1998 Oldsmobile Alero. 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 (540 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 330 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Oldsmobile Alero. (210 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Oldsmobile Alero. 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL has automatic transmission and 1998 Oldsmobile Alero has manual transmission. 1998 Oldsmobile Alero 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 | 1998 Oldsmobile Alero | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Oldsmobile |
| Model | GL | Alero |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1998 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2987 cc | 2390 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 216 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 540 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2459 kg | 1370 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5090 mm | 4750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1930 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1850 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3080 mm | 2720 mm |
