2009 Mercedes-Benz GL vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz A would be higher. At 5,461 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL (382 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 281 more horse power than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. (101 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL should accelerate faster than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL weights approximately 1325 kg more than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. 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 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. 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 (531 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 381 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. (150 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL | 1998 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | GL | A |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1998 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5461 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 382 HP | 101 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 531 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 98 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.5 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 2445 kg | 1120 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5090 mm | 3580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1930 mm | 1590 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3080 mm | 2430 mm |
