1973 Volkswagen Passat vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML is newer by 39 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 4,600 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML (399 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 291 more horse power than 1973 Volkswagen Passat. (108 HP @ 6100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML should accelerate faster than 1973 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML weights approximately 1351 kg more than 1973 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1973 Volkswagen Passat. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML will offer significantly more control. 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 Mercedes-Benz ML (600 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 460 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Volkswagen Passat. (140 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Volkswagen Passat | 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Passat | ML |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 4600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 399 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 600 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | AWD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 910 kg | 2261 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4803 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 2141 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1796 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2916 mm |
