1970 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 1975 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1975 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Mercedes-Benz E. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Mercedes-Benz E would be higher. At 1,988 cc (4 cylinders), 1970 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1970 Mercedes-Benz E (95 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1975 Volkswagen Passat. (85 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1970 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1975 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1970 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 430 kg more than 1975 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1970 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 1970 Mercedes-Benz E. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1975 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, 1970 Mercedes-Benz E (159 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 41 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 Volkswagen Passat. (118 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1970 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 1970 Mercedes-Benz E | 1975 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | E | Passat |
| Year Released | 1970 | 1975 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1988 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 95 HP | 85 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 159 Nm | 118 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1330 kg | 900 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4700 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1610 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2480 mm |
