1997 Mercedes-Benz V 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 V. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mercedes-Benz V would be higher. At 2,295 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Mercedes-Benz V is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volkswagen Passat (158 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 1997 Mercedes-Benz V. (139 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1997 Mercedes-Benz V. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 307 kg more than 1997 Mercedes-Benz V. 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, 2009 Volkswagen Passat (250 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mercedes-Benz V. (210 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mercedes-Benz V.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Mercedes-Benz V | 2009 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | V | Passat |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2295 cc | 1798 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 139 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2000 kg | 2307 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1480 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1850 mm | 1830 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3010 mm | 2720 mm |
