2002 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1977 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 3,997 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (246 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 187 more horse power than 1977 Volkswagen Passat. (59 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1977 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 1110 kg more than 1977 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 Mercedes-Benz 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 2002 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1977 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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (560 Nm) has 465 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Volkswagen Passat. (95 Nm). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Volkswagen Passat. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 1977 Volkswagen Passat has manual transmission. 1977 Volkswagen Passat will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Mercedes-Benz S | 1977 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | S | Passat |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1977 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3997 cc | 1272 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 246 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 560 Nm | 95 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.1 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 72 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1990 kg | 880 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5170 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2970 mm | 2480 mm |
