2008 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 1979 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 2,987 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz E (221 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 162 more horse power than 1979 Volkswagen Passat. (59 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1979 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 815 kg more than 1979 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Mercedes-Benz E 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 E. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1979 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 E (510 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 415 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Volkswagen Passat. (95 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Volkswagen Passat. 2008 Mercedes-Benz E has automatic transmission and 1979 Volkswagen Passat has manual transmission. 1979 Volkswagen Passat will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Mercedes-Benz E will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Mercedes-Benz E | 1979 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
Model | E | Passat |
Year Released | 2008 | 1979 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2987 cc | 1272 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 221 HP | 59 HP |
Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 510 Nm | 95 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 3400 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 75 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 72 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 | 1695 kg | 880 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4820 mm | 4300 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1630 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1370 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2480 mm |