2006 Mercedes-Benz B vs. 1981 Volkswagen Santana
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz B is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Volkswagen Santana. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Volkswagen Santana would be higher. At 1,588 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Volkswagen Santana is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz B (94 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 1981 Volkswagen Santana. (53 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz B should accelerate faster than 1981 Volkswagen Santana. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz B weights approximately 277 kg more than 1981 Volkswagen Santana. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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 B (140 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volkswagen Santana. (100 Nm @ 2300 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz B will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volkswagen Santana.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mercedes-Benz B | 1981 Volkswagen Santana | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | B | Santana |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1498 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 94 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 100 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 69.2 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 23.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 174 km/hour | 140 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1302 kg | 1025 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4280 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2780 mm | 2560 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 60 L |
