1971 Mercedes-Benz 300 vs. 2006 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2006 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Mercedes-Benz 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Mercedes-Benz 300 would be higher. At 4,519 cc (8 cylinders), 1971 Mercedes-Benz 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Mercedes-Benz 300 (195 HP @ 4500 RPM) has 91 more horse power than 2006 Volkswagen Passat. (104 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 Mercedes-Benz 300 should accelerate faster than 2006 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Mercedes-Benz 300 weights approximately 435 kg more than 2006 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 Mercedes-Benz 300 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 1971 Mercedes-Benz 300. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 1971 Mercedes-Benz 300 (358 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 108 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Volkswagen Passat. (250 Nm @ 1900 RPM). This means 1971 Mercedes-Benz 300 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Volkswagen Passat. 1971 Mercedes-Benz 300 has automatic transmission and 2006 Volkswagen Passat has manual transmission. 2006 Volkswagen Passat will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1971 Mercedes-Benz 300 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Mercedes-Benz 300 | 2006 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | 300 | Passat |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4519 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 195 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 358 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.0:1 | 19.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 200 km/hour | 188 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11 seconds | 12.1 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1755 kg | 1320 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5010 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 82 L | 70 L |
