2006 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 1980 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 26 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 1,994 cc (5 cylinders), 1980 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Volkswagen Passat (114 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 2006 Mercedes-Benz A. (108 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1980 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 2006 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 710 kg more than 1980 Volkswagen Passat.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz A (250 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 84 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. (166 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mercedes-Benz A | 1980 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | A | Passat |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 1994 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 166 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1785 kg | 1075 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3840 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1600 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2560 mm |
