2007 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1983 Volkswagen Passat

To start off, 2007 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 2,987 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mercedes-Benz C (221 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 162 more horse power than 1983 Volkswagen Passat. (59 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1983 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 660 kg more than 1983 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2007 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 2007 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1983 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, 2007 Mercedes-Benz C (511 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 411 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Volkswagen Passat. (100 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2007 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Volkswagen Passat. 2007 Mercedes-Benz C has automatic transmission and 1983 Volkswagen Passat has manual transmission. 1983 Volkswagen Passat will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2007 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2007 Mercedes-Benz C 1983 Volkswagen Passat
Make Mercedes-Benz Volkswagen
Model C Passat
Year Released 2007 1983
Body Type Sedan Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2987 cc 1295 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 221 HP 59 HP
Engine RPM 3800 RPM 5600 RPM
Torque 511 Nm 100 Nm
Torque RPM 1400 RPM 3500 RPM
Engine Bore Size 83 mm 75 mm
Engine Stroke Size 92 mm 73.4 mm
Fuel Type Diesel Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1600 kg 940 kg
Vehicle Length 4530 mm 4440 mm
Vehicle Width 1430 mm 1690 mm
Vehicle Height 1730 mm 1390 mm
Wheelbase Size 2720 mm 2560 mm