2009 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1972 Volkswagen 1600
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 37 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Volkswagen 1600. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Volkswagen 1600 would be higher. At 5,513 cc (12 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL (510 HP) has 457 more horse power than 1972 Volkswagen 1600. (53 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1972 Volkswagen 1600. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 259 kg more than 1972 Volkswagen 1600. 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 (830 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 720 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Volkswagen 1600. (110 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Volkswagen 1600.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1972 Volkswagen 1600 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | SL | 1600 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 5513 cc | 1584 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 510 HP | 53 HP |
| Torque | 830 Nm | 110 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 85.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 87 mm | 69 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 966 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 16.8 L/100km | 6.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 40 L |
