1999 Toyota MR-S vs. 1974 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1999 Toyota MR-S is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 1,794 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Toyota MR-S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Toyota MR-S (140 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 66 more horse power than 1974 Volkswagen Passat. (74 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Toyota MR-S should accelerate faster than 1974 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Toyota MR-S weights approximately 50 kg more than 1974 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1999 Toyota MR-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 1999 Toyota MR-S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1974 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, 1999 Toyota MR-S (176 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Volkswagen Passat. (121 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1999 Toyota MR-S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Toyota MR-S | 1974 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Toyota | Volkswagen |
| Model | MR-S | Passat |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1974 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1794 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 176 Nm | 121 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91.4 mm | 80 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 970 kg | 920 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3890 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2480 mm |
