1980 Volkswagen Passat vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 32 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), 2012 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz C (136 HP @ 2800 RPM) has 51 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. (85 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Passat.
Because 2012 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 2012 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz C (360 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 234 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. (126 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. 2012 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. 2012 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1980 Volkswagen Passat | 2012 Mercedes-Benz C | |
Make | Volkswagen | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Passat | C |
Year Released | 1980 | 2012 |
Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1588 cc | 2143 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 85 HP | 136 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 2800 RPM |
Torque | 126 Nm | 360 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 1600 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 8.2:1 | 16.2:1 |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4606 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1459 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2760 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 66 L |