1997 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 1973 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1997 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 24 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 1,687 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mercedes-Benz A (88 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 1973 Volkswagen Passat. (59 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1973 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 201 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.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1997 Mercedes-Benz A (180 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 85 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Volkswagen Passat. (95 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1997 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Mercedes-Benz A | 1973 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
Model | A | Passat |
Year Released | 1997 | 1973 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1687 cc | 1297 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 88 HP | 59 HP |
Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 180 Nm | 95 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 2500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 75 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 72 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 19.0:1 | 8.2:1 |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1095 kg | 894 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3580 mm | 4200 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1630 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1580 mm | 1370 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2480 mm |