2009 Mercedes-Benz B vs. 1974 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz B is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 2,034 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz B is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz B (190 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 116 more horse power than 1974 Volkswagen Passat. (74 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz B should accelerate faster than 1974 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz B weights approximately 450 kg more than 1974 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 B (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 159 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Volkswagen Passat. (121 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz B will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz B | 1974 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | B | Passat |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1974 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2034 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 121 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 80 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1370 kg | 920 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4280 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1610 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1780 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2780 mm | 2480 mm |
