1985 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2005 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 2,746 cc (6 cylinders), 1985 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Mercedes-Benz S (154 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 2005 Volkswagen Passat. (134 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1985 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2005 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 115 kg more than 2005 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 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 1985 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2005 Volkswagen Passat (286 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 62 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Mercedes-Benz S. (224 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2005 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Mercedes-Benz S | 2005 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | S | Passat |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2746 cc | 1901 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 154 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 224 Nm | 286 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 1445 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2710 mm |
