2011 Mercedes-Benz G vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz GL
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz GL is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2011 Mercedes-Benz G. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2011 Mercedes-Benz G would be higher. At 5,500 cc (8 cylinders), 2011 Mercedes-Benz G is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz G (382 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 172 more horse power than 2012 Mercedes-Benz GL. (210 HP @ 3400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz G should accelerate faster than 2012 Mercedes-Benz GL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mercedes-Benz G weights approximately 50 kg more than 2012 Mercedes-Benz GL. 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz GL (542 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 12 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Mercedes-Benz G. (530 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz GL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Mercedes-Benz G.
Compare all specifications:
| 2011 Mercedes-Benz G | 2012 Mercedes-Benz GL | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | G | GL |
| Year Released | 2011 | 2012 |
| Body Type | SUV | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5500 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 382 HP | 210 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Torque | 530 Nm | 542 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | 4WD | AWD |
| Transmission Type | 7-speed shiftable automatic | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2550 kg | 2500 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4686 mm | 5098 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1824 mm | 1989 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1930 mm | 1839 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 3076 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 15.7 L/100km | 11.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 19.6 L/100km | 13.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 96 L | 100 L |
