2004 Mercedes-Benz CL vs. 1980 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz CL 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 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz CL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz CL (302 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 249 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. (53 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz CL should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz CL weights approximately 845 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 CL 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 CL. 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 CL (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 360 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. (100 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz CL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
2004 Mercedes-Benz CL | 1980 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
Model | CL | Passat |
Year Released | 2004 | 1980 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4966 cc | 1587 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 302 HP | 53 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4800 RPM |
Torque | 460 Nm | 100 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 2000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 76.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 86.4 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 23.0:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1865 kg | 1020 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 4440 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1690 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1390 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2560 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 99 L | 60 L |