1997 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 2010 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2010 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 13 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 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2010 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Volkswagen Passat (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 112 more horse power than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (88 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 472 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, 2010 Volkswagen Passat (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (180 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 2010 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 2010 Volkswagen Passat has manual transmission. 2010 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 | 2010 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
Model | A | Passat |
Year Released | 1997 | 2010 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1689 cc | 2000 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 88 HP | 200 HP |
Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5100 RPM |
Torque | 180 Nm | 280 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 1800 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1095 kg | 1567 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3580 mm | 4775 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1821 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1580 mm | 1516 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2710 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 70 L |