1989 Mercedes-Benz 500 vs. 1964 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia

To start off, 1989 Mercedes-Benz 500 is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1964 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1964 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia would be higher. At 4,973 cc (8 cylinders), 1989 Mercedes-Benz 500 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Mercedes-Benz 500 (323 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 271 more horse power than 1964 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (52 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Mercedes-Benz 500 should accelerate faster than 1964 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Mercedes-Benz 500 weights approximately 1030 kg more than 1964 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. 1989 Mercedes-Benz 500 has automatic transmission and 1964 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia has manual transmission. 1964 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1989 Mercedes-Benz 500 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1989 Mercedes-Benz 500 1964 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia
Make Mercedes-Benz Volkswagen
Model 500 Karmann-Ghia
Year Released 1989 1964
Engine Position Front Rear
Engine Size 4973 cc 1493 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 323 HP 52 HP
Engine RPM 5500 RPM 4000 RPM
Drive Type Rear Rear
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 2 seats 4 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1890 kg 860 kg
Vehicle Length 4480 mm 4200 mm
Vehicle Width 1820 mm 1640 mm
Vehicle Height 1310 mm 1340 mm
Wheelbase Size 2520 mm 2430 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 80 L 40 L