1981 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2005 Volkswagen Multivan
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen Multivan is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 2,746 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Mercedes-Benz S (154 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 2005 Volkswagen Multivan. (113 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1981 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2005 Volkswagen Multivan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volkswagen Multivan weights approximately 624 kg more than 1981 Mercedes-Benz S.
Because 1981 Mercedes-Benz S 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 1981 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Volkswagen Multivan, 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, 1981 Mercedes-Benz S (223 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 53 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Volkswagen Multivan. (170 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 1981 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Volkswagen Multivan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Mercedes-Benz S | 2005 Volkswagen Multivan | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | S | Multivan |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Van |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2746 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 154 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 223 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 2184 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 4900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1950 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 3010 mm |
