1991 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2013 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2013 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 3,600 cc (6 cylinders), 2013 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Volkswagen Passat (276 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 112 more horse power than 1991 Mercedes-Benz S. (164 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1991 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 43 kg more than 1991 Mercedes-Benz S. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1991 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 1991 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2013 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, 2013 Volkswagen Passat (350 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 122 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Mercedes-Benz S. (228 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2013 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Mercedes-Benz S. 2013 Volkswagen Passat has automatic transmission and 1991 Mercedes-Benz S has manual transmission. 1991 Mercedes-Benz S will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2013 Volkswagen Passat will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Mercedes-Benz S | 2013 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | S | Passat |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2598 cc | 3600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 164 HP | 276 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 228 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.9 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80.3 mm | 96 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1520 kg | 1563 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 4868 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1835 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1487 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2803 mm |
