1941 Mercedes-Benz 230 vs. 2012 Volkswagen Routan
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Routan is newer by 71 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1941 Mercedes-Benz 230. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1941 Mercedes-Benz 230 would be higher. At 3,600 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Routan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Routan (283 HP @ 6350 RPM) has 230 more horse power than 1941 Mercedes-Benz 230. (53 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Routan should accelerate faster than 1941 Mercedes-Benz 230. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Routan weights approximately 634 kg more than 1941 Mercedes-Benz 230. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1941 Mercedes-Benz 230 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1941 Mercedes-Benz 230. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Routan, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 Volkswagen Routan (352 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 213 more torque (in Nm) than 1941 Mercedes-Benz 230. (139 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Routan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1941 Mercedes-Benz 230.
Compare all specifications:
| 1941 Mercedes-Benz 230 | 2012 Volkswagen Routan | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | 230 | Routan |
| Year Released | 1941 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2229 cc | 3600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 283 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 6350 RPM |
| Torque | 139 Nm | 352 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Flex Fuel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1450 kg | 2084 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 5144 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1953 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1620 mm | 1750 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3060 mm | 3078 mm |
