1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 vs. 1973 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 2,962 cc (6 cylinders), 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 (220 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 112 more horse power than 1973 Volkswagen Passat. (108 HP @ 6100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 should accelerate faster than 1973 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 weights approximately 560 kg more than 1973 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 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 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1973 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, 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 (265 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 125 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Volkswagen Passat. (140 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 | 1973 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
Model | 300 | Passat |
Year Released | 1989 | 1973 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2962 cc | 1588 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 220 HP | 108 HP |
Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 6100 RPM |
Torque | 265 Nm | 140 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1470 kg | 910 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4660 mm | 4200 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1630 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1370 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2480 mm |