2009 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1980 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 29 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 1,994 cc (5 cylinders), 1980 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C (181 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 66 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. (115 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 415 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 2009 Mercedes-Benz C is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2009 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 Volkswagen Passat, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 C (250 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 83 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. (167 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz C | 1980 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | C | Passat |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1994 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 181 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 167 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 77.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1075 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2560 mm |
