2003 Mercedes-Benz Viano vs. 1977 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz Viano is newer by 26 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 3,199 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz Viano is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz Viano (187 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 128 more horse power than 1977 Volkswagen Passat. (59 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz Viano should accelerate faster than 1977 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz Viano weights approximately 1205 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 2003 Mercedes-Benz Viano 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 Viano. 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz Viano (180 Nm) has 85 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Volkswagen Passat. (95 Nm). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz Viano will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Volkswagen Passat. 2003 Mercedes-Benz Viano 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. 2003 Mercedes-Benz Viano will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mercedes-Benz Viano | 1977 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | Viano | Passat |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1977 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3199 cc | 1272 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 187 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 95 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2085 kg | 880 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5000 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1880 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2480 mm |
