2005 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1978 Volkswagen Iltis
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Volkswagen Iltis. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volkswagen Iltis would be higher. At 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL (302 HP) has 228 more horse power than 1978 Volkswagen Iltis. (74 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1978 Volkswagen Iltis. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 544 kg more than 1978 Volkswagen Iltis. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Volkswagen Iltis is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL (470 Nm) has 334 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volkswagen Iltis. (136 Nm). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volkswagen Iltis.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1978 Volkswagen Iltis | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | SL | Iltis |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4966 cc | 1714 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 302 HP | 74 HP |
| Torque | 470 Nm | 136 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 6 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1844 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 3890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1530 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1840 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2110 mm |
