2009 Mercedes-Benz GL vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mercedes-Benz C. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mercedes-Benz C 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 80 more horse power than 2003 Mercedes-Benz C. (141 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL should accelerate faster than 2003 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL weights approximately 940 kg more than 2003 Mercedes-Benz C. 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 2003 Mercedes-Benz C. 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 194 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mercedes-Benz C. (316 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mercedes-Benz C.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL | 2003 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | GL | C |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2003 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2987 cc | 2148 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 221 HP | 141 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 510 Nm | 316 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 88.3 mm |
| Top Speed | 210 km/hour | 215 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.5 seconds | 10.5 seconds |
| 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 | 1520 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5090 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1930 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3080 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Consumption City | 13.1 L/100km | 8.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 10 L/100km | 6.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 100 L | 69 L |
