2008 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1981 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz S 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 5,513 cc, 2008 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 1240 kg more than 1981 Volkswagen Passat.
Because 2008 Mercedes-Benz S 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 S 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 S (830 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 730 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volkswagen Passat. (100 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volkswagen Passat. 2008 Mercedes-Benz S 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 S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz S | 1981 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | S | Passat |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5513 cc | 1296 cc |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 59 HP |
| Torque | 830 Nm | 100 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 87 mm | 73.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2180 kg | 940 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5210 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1480 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1880 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3170 mm | 2560 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 60 L |
