2004 Mercedes-Benz ML vs. 1974 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz ML is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 3,720 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz ML is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz ML (232 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 158 more horse power than 1974 Volkswagen Passat. (74 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz ML should accelerate faster than 1974 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz ML weights approximately 1266 kg more than 1974 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 ML is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1974 Volkswagen Passat. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz ML will offer significantly more control. 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 ML (331 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 216 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Volkswagen Passat. (115 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz ML will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mercedes-Benz ML | 1974 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | ML | Passat |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1974 |
| Body Type | SUV | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3720 cc | 1471 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 232 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 331 Nm | 115 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2186 kg | 920 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1920 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1820 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2480 mm |
