2004 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1980 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 3,196 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C (216 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 131 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. (85 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 610 kg more than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Mercedes-Benz C 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 2004 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C (300 Nm) has 174 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. (126 Nm). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
2004 Mercedes-Benz C | 1980 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
Model | C | Passat |
Year Released | 2004 | 1980 |
Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3196 cc | 1588 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 216 HP | 85 HP |
Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 300 Nm | 126 Nm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.2:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1530 kg | 920 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4270 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1620 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1370 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2970 mm | 2480 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 45 L |