1975 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 1981 Volkswagen Santana
To start off, 1981 Volkswagen Santana is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 Mercedes-Benz E. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 Mercedes-Benz E would be higher. At 1,988 cc (4 cylinders), 1975 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1975 Mercedes-Benz E (94 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 1981 Volkswagen Santana. (53 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1975 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1981 Volkswagen Santana. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1975 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 305 kg more than 1981 Volkswagen Santana. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1975 Mercedes-Benz E 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 1975 Mercedes-Benz E. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 Volkswagen Santana, 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, 1975 Mercedes-Benz E (160 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volkswagen Santana. (100 Nm @ 2300 RPM). This means 1975 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volkswagen Santana.
Compare all specifications:
| 1975 Mercedes-Benz E | 1981 Volkswagen Santana | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | E | Santana |
| Year Released | 1975 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1988 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 94 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 100 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 2300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1330 kg | 1025 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4700 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2560 mm |
