1987 Volkswagen Passat vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz CL
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz CL is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 4,663 cc (8 cylinders), 2011 Mercedes-Benz CL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz CL (432 HP) has 373 more horse power than 1987 Volkswagen Passat. (59 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz CL should accelerate faster than 1987 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mercedes-Benz CL weights approximately 1280 kg more than 1987 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 Mercedes-Benz CL 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 2011 Mercedes-Benz CL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1987 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz CL (700 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 600 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Volkswagen Passat. (100 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz CL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Volkswagen Passat | 2011 Mercedes-Benz CL | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Passat | CL |
| Year Released | 1987 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1296 cc | 4663 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 432 HP |
| Torque | 100 Nm | 700 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 940 kg | 2220 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 5095 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1872 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1417 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2954 mm |
