1985 Mercedes-Benz 260 vs. 2006 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2006 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Mercedes-Benz 260. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Mercedes-Benz 260 would be higher. At 2,599 cc (6 cylinders), 1985 Mercedes-Benz 260 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 260 (168 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 2006 Volkswagen Passat. (139 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 260 should accelerate faster than 2006 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Mercedes-Benz 260 weights approximately 260 kg more than 2006 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1985 Mercedes-Benz 260 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 1985 Mercedes-Benz 260. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2006 Volkswagen Passat (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 92 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 260. (228 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2006 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 260. 1985 Mercedes-Benz 260 has automatic transmission and 2006 Volkswagen Passat has manual transmission. 2006 Volkswagen Passat will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1985 Mercedes-Benz 260 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Mercedes-Benz 260 | 2006 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | 260 | Passat |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2599 cc | 1968 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 139 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 228 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.9 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80.3 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 18.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 212 km/hour | 209 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1422 kg | 1162 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4750 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 70 L |
