2009 Mercedes-Benz R vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz GL
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz GL is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2009 Mercedes-Benz R. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2009 Mercedes-Benz R would be higher. At 4,700 cc (8 cylinders), 2011 Mercedes-Benz GL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz GL (335 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 2009 Mercedes-Benz R. (268 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz GL should accelerate faster than 2009 Mercedes-Benz R. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mercedes-Benz GL weights approximately 1280 kg more than 2009 Mercedes-Benz R. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz GL (459 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 109 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mercedes-Benz R. (350 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz GL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mercedes-Benz R.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz R | 2011 Mercedes-Benz GL | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | R | GL |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Minivan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3498 cc | 4700 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 268 HP | 335 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 459 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 6 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1145 kg | 2425 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5160 mm | 5098 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1989 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1670 mm | 1839 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3220 mm | 3076 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 11.8 L/100km | 13.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 15.7 L/100km | 18.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 100 L |
