1980 Mercedes-Benz G vs. 2006 Volkswagen Transporter
To start off, 2006 Volkswagen Transporter is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Mercedes-Benz G. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Mercedes-Benz G would be higher. At 2,460 cc (5 cylinders), 2006 Volkswagen Transporter is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Volkswagen Transporter (172 HP @ 3500 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 1980 Mercedes-Benz G. (125 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volkswagen Transporter should accelerate faster than 1980 Mercedes-Benz G.
Because 1980 Mercedes-Benz G is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2006 Volkswagen Transporter. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 Mercedes-Benz G 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, 2006 Volkswagen Transporter (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 208 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Mercedes-Benz G. (192 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Volkswagen Transporter will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Mercedes-Benz G.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Mercedes-Benz G | 2006 Volkswagen Transporter | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | G | Transporter |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2006 |
| Body Type | SUV | Van |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2297 cc | 2460 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 125 HP | 172 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 192 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.5 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80.2 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 19.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4240 mm | 5080 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1940 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1940 mm | 2000 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 3010 mm |
