1997 Volkswagen Passat vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 5,500 cc (8 cylinders), 2011 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz S (536 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 388 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Passat. (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 775 kg more than 1997 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 Volkswagen Passat is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2011 Mercedes-Benz S. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz S (799 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 593 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Passat. (206 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Passat. 2011 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 1997 Volkswagen Passat has manual transmission. 1997 Volkswagen Passat will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Volkswagen Passat | 2011 Mercedes-Benz S | |
Make | Volkswagen | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Passat | S |
Year Released | 1997 | 2011 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2327 cc | 5500 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 148 HP | 536 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 206 Nm | 799 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 2000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1455 kg | 2230 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 5245 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1872 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1473 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 3165 mm |