1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 vs. 1983 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1983 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 would be higher. At 2,399 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 (72 HP) has 13 more horse power than 1983 Volkswagen Passat. (59 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 should accelerate faster than 1983 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 weights approximately 445 kg more than 1983 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 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 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1983 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, 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 (137 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 37 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Volkswagen Passat. (100 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 | 1983 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
Model | 240 | Passat |
Year Released | 1978 | 1983 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2399 cc | 1297 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 72 HP | 59 HP |
Torque | 137 Nm | 100 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 91 mm | 75 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 92.4 mm | 73.4 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 21.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 940 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4440 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1690 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1390 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2560 mm |