1997 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 2007 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2007 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 10 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 3,595 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Volkswagen Passat (280 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 222 more horse power than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (58 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 500 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, 2007 Volkswagen Passat (359 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 199 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (160 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 2007 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Mercedes-Benz A | 2007 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | A | Passat |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1689 cc | 3595 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 58 HP | 280 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 359 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1120 kg | 1620 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3580 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1580 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 70 L |
