2005 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1973 Volkswagen K 70
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Volkswagen K 70. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Volkswagen K 70 would be higher. At 5,441 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL (493 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 418 more horse power than 1973 Volkswagen K 70. (75 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1973 Volkswagen K 70. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 905 kg more than 1973 Volkswagen K 70. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 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 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1973 Volkswagen K 70, 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL (701 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 578 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Volkswagen K 70. (123 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Volkswagen K 70. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1973 Volkswagen K 70 has manual transmission. 1973 Volkswagen K 70 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1973 Volkswagen K 70 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | SL | K 70 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5441 cc | 1605 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 493 HP | 75 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 701 Nm | 123 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 76 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 148 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1955 kg | 1050 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 13.5 L/100km | 6.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 45 L |
