1981 Mercedes-Benz G vs. 2006 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2006 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Mercedes-Benz G. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Mercedes-Benz G would be higher. At 2,299 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 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 1981 Mercedes-Benz G. (125 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1981 Mercedes-Benz G. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Mercedes-Benz G weights approximately 410 kg more than 2006 Volkswagen Passat.
Because 1981 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, 1981 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 14 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Mercedes-Benz G. (186 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Mercedes-Benz G.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Mercedes-Benz G | 2006 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | G | Passat |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2006 |
| Body Type | SUV | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2299 cc | 1983 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 | 186 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 11.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1930 kg | 1520 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4690 mm | 4780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1940 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2720 mm |
