1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 vs. 1986 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1986 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 would be higher. At 2,745 cc (6 cylinders), 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 (185 HP) has 126 more horse power than 1986 Volkswagen Passat. (59 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 1986 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 weights approximately 620 kg more than 1986 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 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 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 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, 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 139 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Volkswagen Passat. (101 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 | 1986 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | 280 | Passat |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2745 cc | 1297 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 185 HP | 59 HP |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 101 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 73.4 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 940 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5000 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2940 mm | 2560 mm |
