1993 Mercedes-Benz 200 vs. 1981 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1993 Mercedes-Benz 200 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 1993 Mercedes-Benz 200 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1993 Mercedes-Benz 200 (141 HP) has 82 more horse power than 1981 Volkswagen Passat. (59 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1993 Mercedes-Benz 200 should accelerate faster than 1981 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1993 Mercedes-Benz 200 weights approximately 450 kg more than 1981 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1993 Mercedes-Benz 200 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 1993 Mercedes-Benz 200. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 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, 1993 Mercedes-Benz 200 (273 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 173 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volkswagen Passat. (100 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1993 Mercedes-Benz 200 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 1993 Mercedes-Benz 200 | 1981 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | 200 | Passat |
| Year Released | 1993 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1295 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 59 HP |
| Torque | 273 Nm | 100 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 73.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 22.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1390 kg | 940 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2560 mm |
