1980 Volkswagen Passat vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz C

To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 31 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 2,143 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz C (168 HP) has 109 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. (59 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Passat.

Because 2011 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 2011 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz C (400 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 305 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. (95 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. 2011 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. 2011 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1980 Volkswagen Passat 2011 Mercedes-Benz C
Make Volkswagen Mercedes-Benz
Model Passat C
Year Released 1980 2011
Body Type Sedan Coupe
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1272 cc 2143 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 59 HP 168 HP
Torque 95 Nm 400 Nm
Torque RPM 3400 RPM 1400 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 8.2:1 16.2:1
Fuel Type Gasoline Diesel
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual 7-speed shiftable automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Length 4300 mm 4606 mm
Vehicle Width 1630 mm 1770 mm
Vehicle Height 1370 mm 1459 mm
Wheelbase Size 2480 mm 2760 mm


 

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