1968 Mercedes-Benz 230 vs. 1974 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1974 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Mercedes-Benz 230. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Mercedes-Benz 230 would be higher. At 2,308 cc (6 cylinders), 1968 Mercedes-Benz 230 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1968 Mercedes-Benz 230 (120 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 46 more horse power than 1974 Volkswagen Passat. (74 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1968 Mercedes-Benz 230 should accelerate faster than 1974 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1968 Mercedes-Benz 230 weights approximately 598 kg more than 1974 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1968 Mercedes-Benz 230 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 1968 Mercedes-Benz 230. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1974 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, 1968 Mercedes-Benz 230 (179 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 58 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Volkswagen Passat. (121 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1968 Mercedes-Benz 230 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
1968 Mercedes-Benz 230 | 1974 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
Model | 230 | Passat |
Year Released | 1968 | 1974 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2308 cc | 1588 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 120 HP | 74 HP |
Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 179 Nm | 121 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3200 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 79.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 72.8 mm | 80 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1518 kg | 920 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5340 mm | 4200 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1630 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1370 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 3400 mm | 2480 mm |