1978 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1972 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia
To start off, 1978 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 6 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 2,746 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Mercedes-Benz S (157 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 108 more horse power than 1972 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (49 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1972 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 740 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, 1978 Mercedes-Benz S (223 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 115 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (108 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1978 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia.
Compare all specifications:
1978 Mercedes-Benz S | 1972 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
Model | S | Karmann-Ghia |
Year Released | 1978 | 1972 |
Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Rear |
Engine Size | 2746 cc | 1584 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 157 HP | 49 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 223 Nm | 108 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 85.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 69 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1610 kg | 870 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4200 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1640 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1340 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2430 mm |