2009 Mercedes-Benz GL vs. 1977 Ford Cortina
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Ford Cortina. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Ford Cortina would be higher. At 2,987 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL (221 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 135 more horse power than 1977 Ford Cortina. (86 HP @ 5300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL should accelerate faster than 1977 Ford Cortina. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL weights approximately 1350 kg more than 1977 Ford Cortina. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1977 Ford Cortina. 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL (510 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 370 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Ford Cortina. (140 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Ford Cortina.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL | 1977 Ford Cortina | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Ford |
| Model | GL | Cortina |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1977 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2987 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 221 HP | 86 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 510 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 2460 kg | 1110 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5090 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1930 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3080 mm | 2580 mm |
