2009 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 1981 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 28 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 2,034 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz A (134 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 75 more horse power than 1981 Volkswagen Passat. (59 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1981 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 285 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.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz A (185 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 85 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volkswagen Passat. (100 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volkswagen Passat. 2009 Mercedes-Benz A 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. 2009 Mercedes-Benz A will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz A | 1981 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | A | Passat |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2034 cc | 1296 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 185 Nm | 100 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 940 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3840 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1600 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2560 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 60 L |
