1972 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 39 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia would be higher. At 5,500 cc (8 cylinders), 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL (382 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 333 more horse power than 1972 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (49 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1972 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 1044 kg more than 1972 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. Let's talk about torque, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL (530 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 422 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (108 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1972 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia has manual transmission. 1972 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1972 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia | 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | Volkswagen | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Karmann-Ghia | SL |
Year Released | 1972 | 2011 |
Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
Engine Position | Rear | Front |
Engine Size | 1584 cc | 5500 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 49 HP | 382 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 108 Nm | 530 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 870 kg | 1914 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4582 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1816 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1298 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2560 mm |