1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 vs. 1974 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 2,746 cc (6 cylinders), 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 (185 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 126 more horse power than 1974 Volkswagen Passat. (59 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 1974 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 weights approximately 580 kg more than 1974 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1980 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 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1974 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, 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 146 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Volkswagen Passat. (94 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 | 1974 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
Model | 280 | Passat |
Year Released | 1980 | 1974 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2746 cc | 1271 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 185 HP | 59 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 240 Nm | 94 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 75 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 72 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 8.2:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1500 kg | 920 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4200 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1630 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1370 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2480 mm |