1997 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 2009 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mercedes-Benz C. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mercedes-Benz C would be higher. At 4,266 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mercedes-Benz C (303 HP @ 5850 RPM) has 103 more horse power than 2009 Volkswagen Passat. (200 HP @ 5100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 2009 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 340 kg more than 2009 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 Mercedes-Benz C is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1997 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen Passat, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 C (410 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 129 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Volkswagen Passat. (281 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 1997 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Mercedes-Benz C | 2009 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | C | Passat |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4266 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 303 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5850 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 410 Nm | 281 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 19.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1570 kg | 1230 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 69 L | 70 L |
