2004 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 1986 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 5,441 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz E (470 HP) has 411 more horse power than 1986 Volkswagen Passat. (59 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1986 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 914 kg more than 1986 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 E 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 E. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 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 E (700 Nm) has 599 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Volkswagen Passat. (101 Nm). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mercedes-Benz E | 1986 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | E | Passat |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1986 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5441 cc | 1297 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 470 HP | 59 HP |
| Torque | 700 Nm | 101 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 73.4 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1854 kg | 940 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4820 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2560 mm |
