2003 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1983 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 4,964 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S (302 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 243 more horse power than 1983 Volkswagen Passat. (59 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1983 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 935 kg more than 1983 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 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 2003 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1983 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 360 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Volkswagen Passat. (100 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Volkswagen Passat. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 1983 Volkswagen Passat has manual transmission. 1983 Volkswagen Passat will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Mercedes-Benz S | 1983 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
Model | S | Passat |
Year Released | 2003 | 1983 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4964 cc | 1295 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 302 HP | 59 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 460 Nm | 100 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 75 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 73.4 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1875 kg | 940 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 4440 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1690 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1390 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2560 mm |