2005 Mercedes-Benz R vs. 1973 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz R is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 2,987 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz R is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz R (221 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 172 more horse power than 1973 Volkswagen Passat. (49 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz R should accelerate faster than 1973 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz R weights approximately 1355 kg more than 1973 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 R is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1973 Volkswagen Passat. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz R 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz R (511 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 429 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Volkswagen Passat. (82 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz R will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mercedes-Benz R | 1973 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | R | Passat |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2987 cc | 1471 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 221 HP | 49 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 511 Nm | 82 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 76.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 80 mm |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2270 kg | 915 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5160 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1930 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1660 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3220 mm | 2480 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 45 L |
