1984 Volkswagen Passat vs. 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL
To start off, 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL is newer by 29 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 4,600 cc (8 cylinders), 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL (423 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 370 more horse power than 1984 Volkswagen Passat. (53 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL should accelerate faster than 1984 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL weights approximately 1400 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 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1984 Volkswagen Passat. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL 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, 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL (700 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 599 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Volkswagen Passat. (101 Nm @ 2300 RPM). This means 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 1984 Volkswagen Passat | 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Passat | GL |
| Year Released | 1984 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 4600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | electric |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 423 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 101 Nm | 700 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2300 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.5 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 86 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1045 kg | 2445 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 5120 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 2141 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1850 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 3075 mm |
