1998 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 1975 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1998 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz E (134 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 1975 Volkswagen Passat. (60 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1975 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 640 kg more than 1975 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 Mercedes-Benz E 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 1998 Mercedes-Benz E. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1975 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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz E (191 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 97 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 Volkswagen Passat. (94 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mercedes-Benz E | 1975 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | E | Passat |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1975 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1272 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 60 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 191 Nm | 94 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.7 mm | 72 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 920 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4830 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2480 mm |
