2009 Mercedes-Benz GL vs. 1978 Volvo 265
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Volvo 265. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volvo 265 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 73 more horse power than 1978 Volvo 265. (148 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL should accelerate faster than 1978 Volvo 265. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL weights approximately 1056 kg more than 1978 Volvo 265. 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 1978 Volvo 265. 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 292 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volvo 265. (218 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volvo 265. 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL has automatic transmission and 1978 Volvo 265 has manual transmission. 1978 Volvo 265 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL | 1978 Volvo 265 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | GL | 265 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2987 cc | 2664 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 221 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 510 Nm | 218 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 73 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.7:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2460 kg | 1404 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5090 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1930 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3080 mm | 2660 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 100 L | 60 L |
