1971 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia vs. 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLS
To start off, 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLS is newer by 42 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia would be higher. At 6,300 cc (8 cylinders), 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLS (575 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 523 more horse power than 1971 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (52 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLS should accelerate faster than 1971 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLS weights approximately 804 kg more than 1971 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia | 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLS | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Karmann-Ghia | SLS |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Rear | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1493 cc | 6300 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 52 HP | 575 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 4-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 860 kg | 1664 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4638 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 2075 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1261 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2680 mm |
