1981 Volkswagen Santana vs. 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Volkswagen Santana. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Volkswagen Santana would be higher. At 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL (228 HP) has 169 more horse power than 1981 Volkswagen Santana. (59 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1981 Volkswagen Santana.
Because 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 Volkswagen Santana, 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, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL (300 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 200 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volkswagen Santana. (100 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volkswagen Santana. 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1981 Volkswagen Santana has manual transmission. 1981 Volkswagen Santana will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Volkswagen Santana | 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Santana | SL |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1296 cc | 2996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 228 HP |
| Torque | 100 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4582 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1298 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2560 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 80 L |
