2008 Mercedes-Benz GL vs. 1971 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL is newer by 37 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia would be higher. At 5,459 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL (383 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 340 more horse power than 1971 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (43 HP @ 4100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL should accelerate faster than 1971 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL weights approximately 1599 kg more than 1971 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1971 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL (530 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 444 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (86 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL has automatic transmission and 1971 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia has manual transmission. 1971 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL | 1971 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | GL | Karmann-Ghia |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1971 |
| Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 5459 cc | 1285 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 383 HP | 43 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Torque | 530 Nm | 86 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2445 kg | 846 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5090 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1930 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1850 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3080 mm | 2430 mm |
