1998 Mercedes-Benz CL vs. 1959 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia
To start off, 1998 Mercedes-Benz CL is newer by 39 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia would be higher. At 5,786 cc (12 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz CL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz CL (367 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 315 more horse power than 1959 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (52 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz CL should accelerate faster than 1959 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz CL weights approximately 1095 kg more than 1959 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. 1998 Mercedes-Benz CL has automatic transmission and 1959 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia has manual transmission. 1959 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Mercedes-Benz CL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1998 Mercedes-Benz CL | 1959 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
Model | CL | Karmann-Ghia |
Year Released | 1998 | 1959 |
Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Rear |
Engine Size | 5786 cc | 1493 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 367 HP | 52 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1955 kg | 860 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5000 mm | 4200 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1640 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1340 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2970 mm | 2430 mm |