1980 Mercedes-Benz G vs. 2009 Nissan Xterra
To start off, 2009 Nissan Xterra is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Mercedes-Benz G. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Mercedes-Benz G would be higher. At 3,954 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Nissan Xterra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Nissan Xterra (262 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 137 more horse power than 1980 Mercedes-Benz G. (125 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Nissan Xterra should accelerate faster than 1980 Mercedes-Benz G. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Mercedes-Benz G weights approximately 640 kg more than 2009 Nissan Xterra.
Both vehicles are four wheel drive (4WD) - it offers better handling, traction, and control in all driving conditions compared with front wheel drive or rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 Nissan Xterra (381 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 189 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Mercedes-Benz G. (192 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Nissan Xterra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Mercedes-Benz G.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Mercedes-Benz G | 2009 Nissan Xterra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Nissan |
| Model | G | Xterra |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2009 |
| Body Type | SUV | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2299 cc | 3954 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 125 HP | 262 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 192 Nm | 381 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1930 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4690 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1940 mm | 1910 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2710 mm |
