2009 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1956 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 53 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1956 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1956 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia would be higher. At 5,980 cc (12 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL (661 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 622 more horse power than 1956 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (39 HP @ 3900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1956 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 545 kg more than 1956 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 SL (1,000 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 912 more torque (in Nm) than 1956 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (88 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1956 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1956 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia has manual transmission. 1956 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1956 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
Model | SL | Karmann-Ghia |
Year Released | 2009 | 1956 |
Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Rear |
Engine Size | 5980 cc | 1192 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | boxer |
Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 661 HP | 39 HP |
Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 3900 RPM |
Torque | 1000 Nm | 88 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 2400 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1365 kg | 820 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5210 mm | 4150 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1830 mm | 1510 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2410 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 42 L |