1976 Mercedes-Benz 200 vs. 2009 Volkswagen T5
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen T5 is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Mercedes-Benz 200. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Mercedes-Benz 200 would be higher. At 2,459 cc (5 cylinders), 2009 Volkswagen T5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volkswagen T5 (172 HP @ 3500 RPM) has 68 more horse power than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 200. (104 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen T5 should accelerate faster than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 200. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Mercedes-Benz 200 weights approximately 116 kg more than 2009 Volkswagen T5.
Because 1976 Mercedes-Benz 200 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 1976 Mercedes-Benz 200. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen T5, 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, 2009 Volkswagen T5 (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 236 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 200. (164 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Volkswagen T5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 200.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Mercedes-Benz 200 | 2009 Volkswagen T5 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | 200 | T5 |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 2459 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 172 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 164 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80.3 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 160 km/hour | 185 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1340 kg | 1224 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 2000 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1910 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 3010 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 80 L |
