1968 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 2004 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Mercedes-Benz E. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Mercedes-Benz E would be higher. At 1,987 cc (4 cylinders), 1968 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen Passat (128 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 75 more horse power than 1968 Mercedes-Benz E. (53 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1968 Mercedes-Benz E. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 166 kg more than 1968 Mercedes-Benz E. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1968 Mercedes-Benz E 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 E. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 Volkswagen Passat (320 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 205 more torque (in Nm) than 1968 Mercedes-Benz E. (115 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2004 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1968 Mercedes-Benz E.
Compare all specifications:
| 1968 Mercedes-Benz E | 2004 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | E | Passat |
| Year Released | 1968 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1987 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 128 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 115 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 81.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 96 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 18.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1430 kg | 1596 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4700 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2520 mm |
