1980 Mercedes-Benz G vs. 2004 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Mercedes-Benz G. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Mercedes-Benz G would be higher. At 2,297 cc (4 cylinders), 1980 Mercedes-Benz G is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen Passat (148 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 1980 Mercedes-Benz G. (125 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1980 Mercedes-Benz G. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Mercedes-Benz G weights approximately 571 kg more than 2004 Volkswagen Passat.
Because 1980 Mercedes-Benz G is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2004 Volkswagen Passat. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 Mercedes-Benz G will offer significantly more control. 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, 2004 Volkswagen Passat (210 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 18 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Mercedes-Benz G. (192 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2004 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Mercedes-Benz G.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Mercedes-Benz G | 2004 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | G | Passat |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2004 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2297 cc | 1786 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 125 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 192 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.5 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80.2 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.3:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1880 kg | 1309 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4240 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1940 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2710 mm |
