2009 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 1974 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 35 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 5,438 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz E (469 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 426 more horse power than 1974 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (43 HP @ 4100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1974 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 995 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.
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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz E (700 Nm @ 2650 RPM) has 614 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (86 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. 2009 Mercedes-Benz E 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. 2009 Mercedes-Benz E will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz E | 1974 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | E | Karmann-Ghia |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1974 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 5438 cc | 1285 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 469 HP | 43 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Torque | 700 Nm | 86 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2650 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1835 kg | 840 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1500 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1830 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2430 mm |
