1978 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1993 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1993 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 2,746 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Mercedes-Benz S (157 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 83 more horse power than 1993 Volkswagen Passat. (74 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1993 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 350 kg more than 1993 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Mercedes-Benz S 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 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1993 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, 1978 Mercedes-Benz S (223 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 73 more torque (in Nm) than 1993 Volkswagen Passat. (150 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 1978 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1993 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Mercedes-Benz S | 1993 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | S | Passat |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1993 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2746 cc | 1895 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 157 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 223 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.7:1 | 22.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1610 kg | 1260 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1750 mm |
