2006 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1974 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 2,999 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C (228 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 154 more horse power than 1974 Volkswagen Passat. (74 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1974 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 865 kg more than 1974 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 Mercedes-Benz C 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 2006 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1974 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C (300 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 179 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Volkswagen Passat. (121 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mercedes-Benz C | 1974 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | C | Passat |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1974 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2999 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 121 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1785 kg | 920 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2480 mm |
