1973 Mercedes-Benz 450 vs. 2009 Volkswagen T5
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen T5 is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450 would be higher. At 4,520 cc (8 cylinders), 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450 (217 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 2009 Volkswagen T5. (172 HP @ 3500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450 should accelerate faster than 2009 Volkswagen T5. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Volkswagen T5 weights approximately 542 kg more than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450.
Because 2009 Volkswagen T5 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen T5 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, 2009 Volkswagen T5 (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 41 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450. (359 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2009 Volkswagen T5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450 has automatic transmission and 2009 Volkswagen T5 has manual transmission. 2009 Volkswagen T5 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450 | 2009 Volkswagen T5 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | 450 | T5 |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4520 cc | 2459 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 172 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 359 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1765 kg | 2307 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5070 mm | 4900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 2000 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1910 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2970 mm | 3010 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 95 L | 80 L |
