1962 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz GLK
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz GLK is newer by 49 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1962 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1962 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Mercedes-Benz GLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz GLK (268 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 225 more horse power than 1962 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (43 HP @ 4100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz GLK should accelerate faster than 1962 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mercedes-Benz GLK weights approximately 1010 kg more than 1962 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 Mercedes-Benz GLK is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1962 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz GLK 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz GLK (349 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 263 more torque (in Nm) than 1962 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (86 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz GLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1962 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. 2011 Mercedes-Benz GLK has automatic transmission and 1962 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia has manual transmission. 1962 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Mercedes-Benz GLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1962 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia | 2011 Mercedes-Benz GLK | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Karmann-Ghia | GLK |
| Year Released | 1962 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Convertible | SUV |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1285 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 43 HP | 268 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4100 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 86 Nm | 349 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| 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 | 840 kg | 1850 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4529 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1887 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1699 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2756 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 66 L |
