1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 vs. 1980 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1980 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 would be higher. At 3,499 cc (8 cylinders), 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 (200 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 147 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. (53 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 weights approximately 528 kg more than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Let's talk about torque, 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 (286 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 185 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. (101 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 | 1980 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | 350 | Passat |
| Year Released | 1971 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3499 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 286 Nm | 101 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 65.8 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1548 kg | 1020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4380 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2560 mm |
