1974 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2012 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 38 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 4,520 cc (8 cylinders), 1974 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Passat (280 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 57 more horse power than 1974 Mercedes-Benz S. (223 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1974 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 167 kg more than 2012 Volkswagen Passat.
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, 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, 1974 Mercedes-Benz S (378 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 29 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen Passat. (349 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1974 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
1974 Mercedes-Benz S | 2012 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
Model | S | Passat |
Year Released | 1974 | 2012 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4520 cc | 3600 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 223 HP | 280 HP |
Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
Torque | 378 Nm | 349 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1730 kg | 1563 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 |