1998 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1978 Volkswagen Citi
To start off, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Volkswagen Citi. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volkswagen Citi would be higher. At 2,799 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (204 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 123 more horse power than 1978 Volkswagen Citi. (81 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1978 Volkswagen Citi. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 930 kg more than 1978 Volkswagen Citi. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 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 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 Volkswagen Citi, 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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (270 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 139 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volkswagen Citi. (131 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volkswagen Citi. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1978 Volkswagen Citi has manual transmission. 1978 Volkswagen Citi will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1978 Volkswagen Citi | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
Model | SL | Citi |
Year Released | 1998 | 1978 |
Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2799 cc | 1595 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 204 HP | 81 HP |
Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 270 Nm | 131 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1810 kg | 880 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 3820 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1620 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2410 mm |