2006 Mercedes-Benz GL vs. 1985 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 4,663 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL (335 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 261 more horse power than 1985 Volkswagen Passat. (74 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL should accelerate faster than 1985 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL weights approximately 1390 kg more than 1985 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 1985 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 (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 335 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Volkswagen Passat. (125 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL | 1985 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | GL | Passat |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1985 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4663 cc | 1595 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 335 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 460 Nm | 125 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2430 kg | 1040 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5090 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1930 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1850 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3080 mm | 2560 mm |
