1980 Volkswagen Passat vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 3,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C (268 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 153 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. (115 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 480 kg more than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 Mercedes-Benz C 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 2006 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C (350 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 183 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. (167 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. 2006 Mercedes-Benz C has automatic transmission and 1980 Volkswagen Passat has manual transmission. 1980 Volkswagen Passat will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1980 Volkswagen Passat | 2006 Mercedes-Benz C | |
Make | Volkswagen | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Passat | C |
Year Released | 1980 | 2006 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1994 cc | 3497 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 115 HP | 268 HP |
Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 167 Nm | 350 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 2400 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1075 kg | 1555 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4530 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1980 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1430 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2720 mm |