1974 Mercedes-Benz 240 vs. 2005 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Mercedes-Benz 240. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Mercedes-Benz 240 would be higher. At 3,005 cc (5 cylinders), 1974 Mercedes-Benz 240 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volkswagen Passat (113 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 1974 Mercedes-Benz 240. (78 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1974 Mercedes-Benz 240. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Mercedes-Benz 240 weights approximately 99 kg more than 2005 Volkswagen Passat.
Because 2005 Volkswagen Passat is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1974 Mercedes-Benz 240. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Volkswagen Passat 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, both vehicles can yield 172 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Mercedes-Benz 240 | 2005 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | 240 | Passat |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3005 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 78 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 172 Nm | 172 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 91 mm | 82.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.4 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 21.0:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 19.9 seconds | 11.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1430 kg | 1331 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4690 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 62 L |
