1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 vs. 2008 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 would be higher. At 2,746 cc (6 cylinders), 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 weights approximately 186 kg more than 2008 Volkswagen Passat.
Because 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 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 280. 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, 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 (233 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 23 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen Passat. (210 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen Passat. 2008 Volkswagen Passat has automatic transmission and 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 has manual transmission. 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Volkswagen Passat will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 | 2008 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | 280 | Passat |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2746 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 174 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 233 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.1 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.7:1 | 9.3:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.1 seconds | 9.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 1374 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4760 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 62 L |
