2009 Mercedes-Benz GL vs. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 5,985 cc (12 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S (389 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 168 more horse power than 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL. (221 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S 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 280 kg more than 1996 Mercedes-Benz S.
Because 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Mercedes-Benz S. 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, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S (570 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL. (510 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL | 1996 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | GL | S |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2987 cc | 5985 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 221 HP | 389 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 510 Nm | 570 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 80.2 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2460 kg | 2180 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5090 mm | 5120 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1930 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3080 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 100 L | 100 L |
