1997 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 1984 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1997 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 1,689 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1984 Volkswagen Passat (59 HP) has 1 more horse power than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (58 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1984 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 180 kg more than 1984 Volkswagen Passat.
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 (160 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Volkswagen Passat. (100 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1997 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Volkswagen Passat. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A has automatic transmission and 1984 Volkswagen Passat has manual transmission. 1984 Volkswagen Passat will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Mercedes-Benz A | 1984 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | A | Passat |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1984 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1689 cc | 1296 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 58 HP | 59 HP |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 100 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 73.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 19.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1120 kg | 940 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3580 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1580 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2560 mm |
