1985 Mercedes-Benz 230 vs. 1997 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1997 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230 would be higher. At 2,771 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volkswagen Passat (190 HP) has 56 more horse power than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230. (134 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 37 kg more than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 Volkswagen Passat is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen Passat 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, 1997 Volkswagen Passat (280 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230. (205 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1997 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230. 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230 has automatic transmission and 1997 Volkswagen Passat has manual transmission. 1997 Volkswagen Passat will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230 | 1997 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | 230 | Passat |
| Year Released | 1985 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2299 cc | 2771 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 190 HP |
| Torque | 205 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1488 kg | 1525 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 72 L | 55 L |
