2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS vs. 1972 Volkswagen 411
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Volkswagen 411. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Volkswagen 411 would be higher. At 5,461 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS (382 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 303 more horse power than 1972 Volkswagen 411. (79 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS should accelerate faster than 1972 Volkswagen 411.
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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS (531 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 396 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Volkswagen 411. (135 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Volkswagen 411.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS | 1972 Volkswagen 411 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | CLS | 411 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 5461 cc | 1679 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 382 HP | 79 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 531 Nm | 135 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Vehicle Length | 4910 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2510 mm |
