2008 Mercedes-Benz GL vs. 1984 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 5,459 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL (383 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 330 more horse power than 1984 Volkswagen Passat. (53 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL should accelerate faster than 1984 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL weights approximately 1400 kg more than 1984 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 1984 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 (530 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 429 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Volkswagen Passat. (101 Nm @ 2300 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Volkswagen Passat. 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL has automatic transmission and 1984 Volkswagen Passat has manual transmission. 1984 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 | 1984 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | GL | Passat |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1984 |
| Body Type | SUV | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5459 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 383 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 530 Nm | 101 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 2300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 98 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.5 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2445 kg | 1045 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5090 mm | 4550 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 |
