1944 Mercedes-Benz 500 vs. 1978 Volkswagen Iltis
To start off, 1978 Volkswagen Iltis is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1944 Mercedes-Benz 500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1944 Mercedes-Benz 500 would be higher. At 5,401 cc (8 cylinders), 1944 Mercedes-Benz 500 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1944 Mercedes-Benz 500 (180 HP) has 106 more horse power than 1978 Volkswagen Iltis. (74 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1944 Mercedes-Benz 500 should accelerate faster than 1978 Volkswagen Iltis. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1944 Mercedes-Benz 500 weights approximately 1106 kg more than 1978 Volkswagen Iltis. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Volkswagen Iltis is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1944 Mercedes-Benz 500. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 Volkswagen Iltis 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, 1944 Mercedes-Benz 500 (440 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 304 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volkswagen Iltis. (136 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1944 Mercedes-Benz 500 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volkswagen Iltis.
Compare all specifications:
| 1944 Mercedes-Benz 500 | 1978 Volkswagen Iltis | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | 500 | Iltis |
| Year Released | 1944 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5401 cc | 1714 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 180 HP | 74 HP |
| Torque | 440 Nm | 136 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 111 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 6 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 2406 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5160 mm | 3890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1530 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1590 mm | 1840 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3300 mm | 2110 mm |
