1955 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz GL
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz GL is newer by 57 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia would be higher. At 3,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz GL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz GL (210 HP @ 3400 RPM) has 161 more horse power than 1955 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (49 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz GL should accelerate faster than 1955 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz GL weights approximately 1630 kg more than 1955 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 Mercedes-Benz GL is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1955 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz GL 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz GL (542 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 434 more torque (in Nm) than 1955 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (108 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz GL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1955 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. 2012 Mercedes-Benz GL has automatic transmission and 1955 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia has manual transmission. 1955 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Mercedes-Benz GL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1955 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia | 2012 Mercedes-Benz GL | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Karmann-Ghia | GL |
| Year Released | 1955 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | SUV |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1584 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 49 HP | 210 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 542 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 870 kg | 2500 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 5098 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1989 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1839 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 3076 mm |
