1973 Volkswagen 1600 vs. 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL
To start off, 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL is newer by 40 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Volkswagen 1600. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Volkswagen 1600 would be higher. At 3,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL (237 HP) has 184 more horse power than 1973 Volkswagen 1600. (53 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL should accelerate faster than 1973 Volkswagen 1600. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL weights approximately 1420 kg more than 1973 Volkswagen 1600. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1973 Volkswagen 1600. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL 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, 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL (617 Nm) has 507 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Volkswagen 1600. (110 Nm). This means 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Volkswagen 1600.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Volkswagen 1600 | 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 1600 | GL |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2013 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1584 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | electric |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 237 HP |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 617 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 85.5 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 69 mm | 92 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1035 kg | 2455 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4380 mm | 5120 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 2141 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1850 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 3075 mm |
