1998 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 2007 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2007 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz A would be higher. At 1,983 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Volkswagen Passat (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 120 more horse power than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. (80 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 350 kg more than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. 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, 2007 Volkswagen Passat (281 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 151 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. (130 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2007 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. 1998 Mercedes-Benz A has automatic transmission and 2007 Volkswagen Passat has manual transmission. 2007 Volkswagen Passat will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Mercedes-Benz A will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mercedes-Benz A | 2007 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | A | Passat |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1397 cc | 1983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 80 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 130 Nm | 281 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Top Speed | 167 km/hour | 204 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1095 kg | 1445 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3580 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1580 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.8 L/100km | 8.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 70 L |
