1975 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2001 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2001 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 6,834 cc (8 cylinders), 1975 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1975 Mercedes-Benz S (283 HP @ 4250 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 2001 Volkswagen Passat. (270 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1975 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2001 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1975 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 755 kg more than 2001 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 Volkswagen Passat is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1975 Mercedes-Benz S. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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, 1975 Mercedes-Benz S (549 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 179 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Volkswagen Passat. (370 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 1975 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 1975 Mercedes-Benz S | 2001 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | S | Passat |
| Year Released | 1975 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 6834 cc | 4003 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | W |
| Horse Power | 283 HP | 270 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4250 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 549 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2420 kg | 1665 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4970 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2710 mm |
