1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 vs. 2012 Volkswagen GTI
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen GTI is newer by 41 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 would be higher. At 3,499 cc (8 cylinders), 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 200 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 weights approximately 202 kg more than 2012 Volkswagen GTI.
Because 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 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 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen GTI, 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, 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 (286 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 6 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen GTI. (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen GTI. 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 has automatic transmission and 2012 Volkswagen GTI has manual transmission. 2012 Volkswagen GTI will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 | 2012 Volkswagen GTI | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | 350 | GTI |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3499 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 286 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Top Speed | 195 km/hour | 240 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1595 kg | 1393 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4750 mm | 4213 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1501 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2578 mm |
