2006 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1970 Volkswagen 1600
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Volkswagen 1600. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Volkswagen 1600 would be higher. At 5,980 cc (12 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL (604 HP) has 551 more horse power than 1970 Volkswagen 1600. (53 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1970 Volkswagen 1600. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 1145 kg more than 1970 Volkswagen 1600. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 SL (1,000 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 890 more torque (in Nm) than 1970 Volkswagen 1600. (110 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1970 Volkswagen 1600.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1970 Volkswagen 1600 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | SL | 1600 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1970 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 5980 cc | 1584 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 604 HP | 53 HP |
| Torque | 1000 Nm | 110 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 85.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93 mm | 69 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2120 kg | 975 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 15.3 L/100km | 6.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 40 L |
