2009 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1964 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 45 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1964 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1964 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia would be higher. At 5,512 cc (12 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL (510 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 458 more horse power than 1964 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (52 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1964 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 1090 kg more than 1964 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. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1964 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia has manual transmission. 1964 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 | 1964 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | SL | Karmann-Ghia |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1964 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 5512 cc | 1493 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 510 HP | 52 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | 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 | 1950 kg | 860 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 40 L |
