1996 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2002 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2002 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S (175 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 2002 Volkswagen Passat. (148 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2002 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 653 kg more than 2002 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 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 1996 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S (330 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 89 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Volkswagen Passat. (241 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Mercedes-Benz S | 2002 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
Model | S | Passat |
Year Released | 1996 | 2002 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2996 cc | 1781 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 5 valves |
Horse Power | 175 HP | 148 HP |
Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 330 Nm | 241 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 1750 RPM |
Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1960 kg | 1307 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5120 mm | 4680 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1750 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1460 mm |