1997 Mercedes-Benz E 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 E. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mercedes-Benz E would be higher. At 3,597 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Passat (280 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 146 more horse power than 1997 Mercedes-Benz E. (134 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1997 Mercedes-Benz E. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 329 kg more than 2008 Volkswagen Passat.
Because 2008 Volkswagen Passat is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Mercedes-Benz E. 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 (359 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 169 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mercedes-Benz E. (190 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 E. 2008 Volkswagen Passat has automatic transmission and 1997 Mercedes-Benz E has manual transmission. 1997 Mercedes-Benz E will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Volkswagen Passat will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Mercedes-Benz E | 2008 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | E | Passat |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 3597 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 280 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 359 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 1231 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4830 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 70 L |
