2009 Mercedes-Benz GL vs. 1979 Volvo 260
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Volvo 260. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Volvo 260 would be higher. At 4,662 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL (335 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 189 more horse power than 1979 Volvo 260. (146 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL should accelerate faster than 1979 Volvo 260. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Volvo 260 weights approximately 125 kg more than 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL.
Because 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1979 Volvo 260. 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 (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 242 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Volvo 260. (218 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Volvo 260. 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL has automatic transmission and 1979 Volvo 260 has manual transmission. 1979 Volvo 260 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 | 1979 Volvo 260 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | GL | 260 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4662 cc | 2664 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 335 HP | 146 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 460 Nm | 218 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5100 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1930 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1850 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3080 mm | 2660 mm |
