2008 Mercedes-Benz R vs. 1974 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz R is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia would be higher. At 2,987 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz R is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz R (187 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 144 more horse power than 1974 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (43 HP @ 4100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz R should accelerate faster than 1974 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz R weights approximately 1410 kg more than 1974 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 R is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1974 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz R 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 R (440 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 354 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (86 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz R will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. 2008 Mercedes-Benz R has automatic transmission and 1974 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia has manual transmission. 1974 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Mercedes-Benz R will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz R | 1974 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | R | Karmann-Ghia |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1974 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 2987 cc | 1285 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 187 HP | 43 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Torque | 440 Nm | 86 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 6 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2250 kg | 840 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4940 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1930 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1670 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2990 mm | 2430 mm |
