2008 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1981 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 595 kg more than 1981 Volkswagen Passat.
Because 2008 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 2008 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C (220 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 120 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volkswagen Passat. (100 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Mercedes-Benz C | 1981 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
Model | C | Passat |
Year Released | 2008 | 1981 |
Body Type | Station Wagon | Station Wagon |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1295 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 0 HP | 59 HP |
Torque | 220 Nm | 100 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 75 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 73.4 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 9.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1535 kg | 940 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4440 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1390 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2560 mm |