2008 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 5,980 cc (12 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL (604 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 222 more horse power than 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL. (382 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL weights approximately 495 kg more than 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Because 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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 SL (1,001 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 470 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL. (531 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | SL | GL |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Convertible | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5980 cc | 5461 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 604 HP | 382 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 1001 Nm | 531 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 4.7 seconds | 6.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1950 kg | 2445 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 5090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1300 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1830 mm | 1930 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 3080 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 18.6 L/100km | 14.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 100 L |
