2006 Mercedes-Benz G vs. 1981 Volkswagen Santana
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz G is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Volkswagen Santana. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Volkswagen Santana would be higher. At 2,686 cc (5 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz G is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz G (154 HP) has 95 more horse power than 1981 Volkswagen Santana. (59 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz G should accelerate faster than 1981 Volkswagen Santana. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz G weights approximately 725 kg more than 1981 Volkswagen Santana. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 Mercedes-Benz G is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1981 Volkswagen Santana. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz G 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz G (400 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 300 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volkswagen Santana. (100 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz G will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volkswagen Santana. 2006 Mercedes-Benz G has automatic transmission and 1981 Volkswagen Santana has manual transmission. 1981 Volkswagen Santana will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Mercedes-Benz G will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mercedes-Benz G | 1981 Volkswagen Santana | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | G | Santana |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1981 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2686 cc | 1296 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 154 HP | 59 HP |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 100 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 75.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.4 mm | 73.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1690 kg | 965 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1940 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2560 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 96 L | 60 L |
