2005 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 1981 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 3,199 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz E (221 HP) has 162 more horse power than 1981 Volkswagen Passat. (59 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1981 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 585 kg more than 1981 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 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 2005 Mercedes-Benz E. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz E (315 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 215 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volkswagen Passat. (100 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mercedes-Benz E | 1981 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | E | Passat |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3199 cc | 1295 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 221 HP | 59 HP |
| Torque | 315 Nm | 100 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 73.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1525 kg | 940 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4820 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2560 mm |
