1977 Volkswagen Passat vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 3,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter (188 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 129 more horse power than 1977 Volkswagen Passat. (59 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter should accelerate faster than 1977 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter weights approximately 1643 kg more than 1977 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 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 2011 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1977 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter (440 Nm) has 345 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Volkswagen Passat. (95 Nm). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Volkswagen Passat. 2011 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter has automatic transmission and 1977 Volkswagen Passat has manual transmission. 1977 Volkswagen Passat will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 Volkswagen Passat | 2011 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Passat | Sprinter |
| Year Released | 1977 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Van |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1272 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 188 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 95 Nm | 440 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 880 kg | 2523 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 6939 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 2024 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 2731 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 4326 mm |
