1973 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2012 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 39 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 2,746 cc (6 cylinders), 1973 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Mercedes-Benz S (182 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Passat. (168 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1973 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 50 kg more than 2012 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 Mercedes-Benz S 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 S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2012 Volkswagen Passat (350 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 117 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Mercedes-Benz S. (233 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
1973 Mercedes-Benz S | 2012 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
Model | S | Passat |
Year Released | 1973 | 2012 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2746 cc | 1400 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 182 HP | 168 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
Torque | 233 Nm | 350 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 1750 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1610 kg | 1560 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4970 mm | 4769 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1820 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2712 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 70 L |