1951 Mercedes-Benz 300S vs. 2008 Volkswagen Passat

To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 57 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1951 Mercedes-Benz 300S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1951 Mercedes-Benz 300S would be higher. At 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 1951 Mercedes-Benz 300S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 148 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1951 Mercedes-Benz 300S weights approximately 366 kg more than 2008 Volkswagen Passat.

Because 1951 Mercedes-Benz 300S is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1951 Mercedes-Benz 300S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Passat, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 1951 Mercedes-Benz 300S (230 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen Passat. (210 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 1951 Mercedes-Benz 300S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen Passat. 2008 Volkswagen Passat has automatic transmission and 1951 Mercedes-Benz 300S has manual transmission. 1951 Mercedes-Benz 300S will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Volkswagen Passat will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1951 Mercedes-Benz 300S 2008 Volkswagen Passat
Make Mercedes-Benz Volkswagen
Model 300S Passat
Year Released 1951 2008
Body Type Convertible Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2996 cc 1781 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 2 valves 5 valves
Horse Power 148 HP 148 HP
Engine RPM 5000 RPM 5700 RPM
Torque 230 Nm 210 Nm
Torque RPM 3800 RPM 1750 RPM
Engine Bore Size 85 mm 81 mm
Engine Stroke Size 88 mm 86.4 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 7.8:1 9.3:1
Top Speed 175 km/hour 221 km/hour
Acceleration 0-100mph 15 seconds 9.5 seconds
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 4 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1740 kg 1374 kg
Vehicle Length 4740 mm 4710 mm
Vehicle Width 1920 mm 1750 mm
Vehicle Height 1520 mm 1470 mm
Wheelbase Size 2910 mm 2710 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 85 L 62 L