1980 Volkswagen Passat vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz E 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 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz E (302 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 217 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. (85 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 885 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 2011 Mercedes-Benz E is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz E 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz E (370 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 244 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. (126 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. 2011 Mercedes-Benz E 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 E will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1980 Volkswagen Passat | 2011 Mercedes-Benz E | |
Make | Volkswagen | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Passat | E |
Year Released | 1980 | 2011 |
Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1588 cc | 3500 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 85 HP | 302 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6500 RPM |
Torque | 126 Nm | 370 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | AWD |
Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 920 kg | 1805 kg |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 80 L |