1963 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML

To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML is newer by 49 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1963 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1963 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia would be higher. At 4,600 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML (399 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 356 more horse power than 1963 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (43 HP @ 4100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML should accelerate faster than 1963 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML weights approximately 1415 kg more than 1963 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 ML is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1963 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML 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 ML (600 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 514 more torque (in Nm) than 1963 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (86 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1963 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML has automatic transmission and 1963 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia has manual transmission. 1963 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1963 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML
Make Volkswagen Mercedes-Benz
Model Karmann-Ghia ML
Year Released 1963 2012
Body Type Convertible SUV
Engine Position Rear Front
Engine Size 1285 cc 4600 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 8 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Valves per Cylinder 2 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 43 HP 399 HP
Engine RPM 4100 RPM 5000 RPM
Torque 86 Nm 600 Nm
Torque RPM 3000 RPM 1600 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 846 kg 2261 kg
Vehicle Length 4200 mm 4803 mm
Vehicle Width 1640 mm 2141 mm
Vehicle Height 1340 mm 1796 mm
Wheelbase Size 2430 mm 2916 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 40 L 93 L