1997 Mercedes-Benz ML 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 ML. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mercedes-Benz ML would be higher. At 3,199 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Mercedes-Benz ML is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mercedes-Benz ML (215 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 101 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen Passat. (114 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz ML should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz ML weights approximately 567 kg more than 2008 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 ML is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2008 Volkswagen Passat. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz ML 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, 1997 Mercedes-Benz ML (310 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 155 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen Passat. (155 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1997 Mercedes-Benz ML will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen Passat. 1997 Mercedes-Benz ML 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 ML will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Mercedes-Benz ML | 2008 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | ML | Passat |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2008 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3199 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 310 Nm | 155 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 86.9 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 12.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 180 km/hour | 200 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.8 seconds | 11.4 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1990 kg | 1423 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1810 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 72 L | 70 L |
