2008 Mercedes-Benz GL vs. 1981 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL 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 2,987 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL (216 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 157 more horse power than 1981 Volkswagen Passat. (59 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL should accelerate faster than 1981 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL weights approximately 1519 kg more than 1981 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 GL is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1981 Volkswagen Passat. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL (540 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 440 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volkswagen Passat. (100 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volkswagen Passat. 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL has automatic transmission and 1981 Volkswagen Passat has manual transmission. 1981 Volkswagen Passat will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL | 1981 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | GL | Passat |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1981 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2987 cc | 1296 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 216 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 540 Nm | 100 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2459 kg | 940 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5090 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1930 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1850 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3080 mm | 2560 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 100 L | 60 L |
