1980 Mercedes-Benz G vs. 2006 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2006 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 26 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, 2006 Volkswagen Passat (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 1980 Mercedes-Benz G. (125 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 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 562 kg more than 2006 Volkswagen Passat.
Because 1980 Mercedes-Benz G is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2006 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, 2006 Volkswagen Passat (200 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 8 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Mercedes-Benz G. (192 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 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 | 2006 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | G | Passat |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2006 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2297 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 125 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 192 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1880 kg | 1318 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4240 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1940 mm | 1590 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2720 mm |
