1996 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 2005 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercedes-Benz E. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz E would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz E (134 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 2005 Volkswagen Passat. (128 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 2005 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 63 kg more than 2005 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 Mercedes-Benz E 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 1996 Mercedes-Benz E. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2005 Volkswagen Passat (195 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mercedes-Benz E. (190 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2005 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mercedes-Benz E.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mercedes-Benz E | 2005 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | E | Passat |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 128 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 195 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.7 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.4:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Top Speed | 198 km/hour | 204 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 12.2 seconds | 10.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1480 kg | 1417 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4820 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.3 L/100km | 8.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 62 L |
