1997 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 2008 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 11 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), 2008 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Passat (128 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (101 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 330 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.
Because 2008 Volkswagen Passat is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Passat will offer significantly more control. 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, 2008 Volkswagen Passat (310 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 160 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (150 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 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 | 2008 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
Model | A | Passat |
Year Released | 1997 | 2008 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1896 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 101 HP | 128 HP |
Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 150 Nm | 310 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1900 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 19.0:1 |
Top Speed | 180 km/hour | 204 km/hour |
Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1350 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3580 mm | 4710 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1750 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1580 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2710 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 62 L |