1984 Volkswagen Passat vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 1,800 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz C (201 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 148 more horse power than 1984 Volkswagen Passat. (53 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1984 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 460 kg more than 1984 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1984 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 (310 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 209 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Volkswagen Passat. (101 Nm @ 2300 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Volkswagen Passat. 2012 Mercedes-Benz C has automatic transmission and 1984 Volkswagen Passat has manual transmission. 1984 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:
| 1984 Volkswagen Passat | 2012 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Passat | C |
| Year Released | 1984 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 201 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 101 Nm | 310 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2300 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| 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 Weight | 1045 kg | 1505 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4592 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1445 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 66 L |
