2006 Mercedes-Benz GL vs. 1980 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL 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 5,461 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL (384 HP) has 325 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. (59 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL weights approximately 1565 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 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL (530 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 435 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. (95 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL has automatic transmission and 1980 Volkswagen Passat has manual transmission. 1980 Volkswagen Passat will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL | 1980 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | GL | Passat |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1980 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5461 cc | 1272 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 384 HP | 59 HP |
| Torque | 530 Nm | 95 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 98 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.5 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.7:1 | 8.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2445 kg | 880 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5090 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1930 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1850 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3080 mm | 2480 mm |
