1998 Mercedes-Benz CL vs. 2008 Volkswagen Passat

To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercedes-Benz CL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz CL would be higher. At 5,786 cc (12 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz CL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz CL (367 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 254 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen Passat. (113 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz CL should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz CL weights approximately 605 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 2008 Volkswagen Passat is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 Mercedes-Benz CL. 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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz CL (530 Nm @ 5300 RPM) has 358 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen Passat. (172 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz CL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen Passat.

Compare all specifications:

1998 Mercedes-Benz CL 2008 Volkswagen Passat
Make Mercedes-Benz Volkswagen
Model CL Passat
Year Released 1998 2008
Body Type Coupe Station Wagon
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 5786 cc 1983 cc
Engine Cylinders 12 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Valves per Cylinder 3 valves 2 valves
Horse Power 367 HP 113 HP
Engine RPM 5500 RPM 5400 RPM
Torque 530 Nm 172 Nm
Torque RPM 5300 RPM 3500 RPM
Engine Bore Size 84 mm 82.5 mm
Engine Stroke Size 87 mm 92.8 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 10.0:1 10.3:1
Top Speed 250 km/hour 190 km/hour
Acceleration 0-100mph 6.6 seconds 11.9 seconds
Drive Type Rear 4WD
Number of Seats 4 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1955 kg 1350 kg
Vehicle Length 5000 mm 4690 mm
Vehicle Width 1860 mm 1750 mm
Vehicle Height 1400 mm 1500 mm
Wheelbase Size 2970 mm 2710 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 88 L 62 L