2002 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1979 Volkswagen Passat

To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 4,266 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (275 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 216 more horse power than 1979 Volkswagen Passat. (59 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1979 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 1015 kg more than 1979 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, 1979 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 (401 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 306 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Volkswagen Passat. (95 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Volkswagen Passat. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 1979 Volkswagen Passat has manual transmission. 1979 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 1979 Volkswagen Passat
Make Mercedes-Benz Volkswagen
Model S Passat
Year Released 2002 1979
Body Type Sedan Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 4266 cc 1272 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 275 HP 59 HP
Engine RPM 5750 RPM 5500 RPM
Torque 401 Nm 95 Nm
Torque RPM 3000 RPM 3400 RPM
Engine Bore Size 89.9 mm 75 mm
Engine Stroke Size 84 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 1895 kg 880 kg
Vehicle Length 5170 mm 4300 mm
Vehicle Width 1860 mm 1630 mm
Vehicle Height 1450 mm 1370 mm
Wheelbase Size 3090 mm 2480 mm


 

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