2009 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1983 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C (201 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 142 more horse power than 1983 Volkswagen Passat. (59 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1983 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 300 kg more than 1983 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, 1983 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 (245 Nm @ 2900 RPM) has 145 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Volkswagen Passat. (100 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz C | 1983 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | C | Passat |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1983 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 1295 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 100 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2900 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 68.4 mm | 73.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.2:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1240 kg | 940 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2560 mm |
