2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS vs. 1975 Volkswagen 181
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 Volkswagen 181. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 Volkswagen 181 would be higher. At 5,461 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS weights approximately 935 kg more than 1975 Volkswagen 181.
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. 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS has automatic transmission and 1975 Volkswagen 181 has manual transmission. 1975 Volkswagen 181 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS | 1975 Volkswagen 181 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | CLS | 181 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1975 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 5461 cc | 1584 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 377 HP | 0 HP |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1835 kg | 900 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 3790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2410 mm |
