1997 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 2003 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2003 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mercedes-Benz A would be higher. At 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volkswagen Passat (135 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 77 more horse power than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (58 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 369 kg more than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2003 Volkswagen Passat (350 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 190 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (160 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 2003 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A has automatic transmission and 2003 Volkswagen Passat has manual transmission. 2003 Volkswagen Passat will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Mercedes-Benz A | 2003 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
Model | A | Passat |
Year Released | 1997 | 2003 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1689 cc | 1896 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 58 HP | 135 HP |
Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 160 Nm | 350 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 1900 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 81 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 95.5 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 19.5:1 | 18.5:1 |
Top Speed | 150 km/hour | 205 km/hour |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 18.8 seconds | 10 seconds |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1120 kg | 1489 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3580 mm | 4690 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1750 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1580 mm | 1500 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2710 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 62 L |