1974 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2008 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 3,499 cc (8 cylinders), 1974 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Mercedes-Benz S (198 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen Passat. (197 HP @ 5100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 230 kg more than 2008 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 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 1974 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 1974 Mercedes-Benz S (286 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 6 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen Passat. (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 1974 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
1974 Mercedes-Benz S | 2008 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
Model | S | Passat |
Year Released | 1974 | 2008 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3499 cc | 1984 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 198 HP | 197 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5100 RPM |
Torque | 286 Nm | 280 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1675 kg | 1445 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4970 mm | 4780 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1830 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1520 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2720 mm |