1976 Mercedes-Benz 250 vs. 2004 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Mercedes-Benz 250. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Mercedes-Benz 250 would be higher. At 2,525 cc (6 cylinders), 1976 Mercedes-Benz 250 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen Passat (148 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 250. (127 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 250. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Mercedes-Benz 250 weights approximately 51 kg more than 2004 Volkswagen Passat.
Because 1976 Mercedes-Benz 250 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 1976 Mercedes-Benz 250. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 Volkswagen Passat (210 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 250. (196 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2004 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 250. 2004 Volkswagen Passat has automatic transmission and 1976 Mercedes-Benz 250 has manual transmission. 1976 Mercedes-Benz 250 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Volkswagen Passat will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Mercedes-Benz 250 | 2004 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | 250 | Passat |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2525 cc | 1786 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 127 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 196 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.1 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72.5 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.7:1 | 9.3:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11.3 seconds | 9.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1360 kg | 1309 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 62 L |
