1991 Mercedes-Benz 500 vs. 2008 Volkswagen Passat

To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Mercedes-Benz 500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Mercedes-Benz 500 would be higher. At 4,971 cc (8 cylinders), 1991 Mercedes-Benz 500 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Mercedes-Benz 500 (326 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 178 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen Passat. (148 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1991 Mercedes-Benz 500 should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Mercedes-Benz 500 weights approximately 638 kg more than 2008 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1991 Mercedes-Benz 500 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 1991 Mercedes-Benz 500. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 1991 Mercedes-Benz 500 (480 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 270 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen Passat. (210 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 1991 Mercedes-Benz 500 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen Passat.

Compare all specifications:

1991 Mercedes-Benz 500 2008 Volkswagen Passat
Make Mercedes-Benz Volkswagen
Model 500 Passat
Year Released 1991 2008
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 4971 cc 1781 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 326 HP 148 HP
Engine RPM 5700 RPM 5700 RPM
Torque 480 Nm 210 Nm
Torque RPM 3900 RPM 1750 RPM
Engine Bore Size 96.5 mm 81 mm
Engine Stroke Size 85 mm 86.4 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 10.0:1 9.3:1
Top Speed 249 km/hour 221 km/hour
Acceleration 0-100mph 6.7 seconds 9.5 seconds
Drive Type Rear Front
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 2012 kg 1374 kg
Vehicle Length 5220 mm 4710 mm
Vehicle Width 1890 mm 1750 mm
Vehicle Height 1500 mm 1470 mm
Wheelbase Size 3150 mm 2710 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 70 L 62 L