2008 Mercedes-Benz R vs. 1980 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz R is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz R is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz R (268 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 178 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. (90 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz R should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz R weights approximately 185 kg more than 1980 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 R is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz R 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 R (350 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 205 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. (145 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz R will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz R | 1980 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | R | Passat |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3498 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 268 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Number of Seats | 6 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1145 kg | 960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5160 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1930 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1660 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3220 mm | 2560 mm |
