2005 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1980 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 25 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 5,506 cc (12 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz S (493 HP) has 434 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. (59 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 1211 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 2005 Mercedes-Benz S 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 S. 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz S (801 Nm) has 706 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. (95 Nm). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mercedes-Benz S | 1980 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | S | Passat |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5506 cc | 1272 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 493 HP | 59 HP |
| Torque | 801 Nm | 95 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 87 mm | 72 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2091 kg | 880 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5170 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3210 mm | 2480 mm |
