1973 Mercedes-Benz 240 vs. 2013 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2013 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 40 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Mercedes-Benz 240. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Mercedes-Benz 240 would be higher. At 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2013 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Volkswagen Passat (168 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 105 more horse power than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 240. (63 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 240.
Because 1973 Mercedes-Benz 240 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 1973 Mercedes-Benz 240. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2013 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, 2013 Volkswagen Passat (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 102 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 240. (138 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2013 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 240.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Mercedes-Benz 240 | 2013 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | 240 | Passat |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2013 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2404 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 63 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 138 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 91 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 92 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4690 mm | 4868 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1835 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1487 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2803 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 70 L |
