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 1,689 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Passat (101 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (88 HP @ 4200 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 261 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, 1997 Mercedes-Benz A (180 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 31 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen Passat. (149 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1997 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen Passat. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A has automatic transmission and 2008 Volkswagen Passat has manual transmission. 2008 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 | 2008 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | A | Passat |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1689 cc | 1595 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 88 HP | 101 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 149 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 77.4 mm |
| Top Speed | 173 km/hour | 185 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 13.2 seconds | 13.3 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 | 1095 kg | 1356 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 |
