1981 Mercedes-Benz G vs. 2011 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2011 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 30 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, 2011 Volkswagen Passat (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 75 more horse power than 1981 Mercedes-Benz G. (125 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 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 363 kg more than 2011 Volkswagen Passat.
Because 1981 Mercedes-Benz G is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2011 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, 2011 Volkswagen Passat (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 94 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Mercedes-Benz G. (186 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2011 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 | 2011 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | G | Passat |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2011 |
| Body Type | SUV | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2299 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 125 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 186 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1930 kg | 1567 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4690 mm | 4775 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1821 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1940 mm | 1516 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2710 mm |
