2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS vs. 1981 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS 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 5,461 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS (377 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 318 more horse power than 1981 Volkswagen Passat. (59 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS should accelerate faster than 1981 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS weights approximately 895 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.
Because 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS 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 CLS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 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 CLS (392 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 292 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volkswagen Passat. (100 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volkswagen Passat. 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS 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 CLS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS | 1981 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
Model | CLS | Passat |
Year Released | 2009 | 1981 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 5461 cc | 1296 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 377 HP | 59 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 392 Nm | 100 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1835 kg | 940 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 4440 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1690 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1390 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2560 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 60 L |