1971 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 2,778 cc (6 cylinders), 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL (168 HP) has 121 more horse power than 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit. (47 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 490 kg more than 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit, 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 SL (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 158 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit. (82 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit.
Compare all specifications:
1971 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
Model | SL | Rabbit |
Year Released | 1971 | 1977 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2778 cc | 1469 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 168 HP | 47 HP |
Torque | 240 Nm | 82 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1360 kg | 870 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 3950 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1620 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2410 mm |