2004 Mercedes-Benz CLS vs. 1977 Volkswagen Iltis
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLS is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Volkswagen Iltis. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Volkswagen Iltis would be higher. At 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLS (469 HP) has 395 more horse power than 1977 Volkswagen Iltis. (74 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLS should accelerate faster than 1977 Volkswagen Iltis. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLS weights approximately 660 kg more than 1977 Volkswagen Iltis. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1977 Volkswagen Iltis is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLS. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1977 Volkswagen Iltis 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLS (701 Nm @ 2650 RPM) has 566 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Volkswagen Iltis. (135 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Volkswagen Iltis. 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLS has automatic transmission and 1977 Volkswagen Iltis has manual transmission. 1977 Volkswagen Iltis will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLS | 1977 Volkswagen Iltis | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | CLS | Iltis |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1977 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5439 cc | 1712 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 469 HP | 74 HP |
| Torque | 701 Nm | 135 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2650 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1960 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 3890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1530 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1840 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2110 mm |
