1998 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 1994 Volkswagen Passat

To start off, 1998 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1994 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1994 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 7,410 cc (12 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz E (612 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 538 more horse power than 1994 Volkswagen Passat. (74 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1994 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 840 kg more than 1994 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1998 Mercedes-Benz E is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1998 Mercedes-Benz E. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1994 Volkswagen Passat, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 E (848 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 708 more torque (in Nm) than 1994 Volkswagen Passat. (140 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1994 Volkswagen Passat. 1998 Mercedes-Benz E has automatic transmission and 1994 Volkswagen Passat has manual transmission. 1994 Volkswagen Passat will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Mercedes-Benz E will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1998 Mercedes-Benz E 1994 Volkswagen Passat
Make Mercedes-Benz Volkswagen
Model E Passat
Year Released 1998 1994
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 7410 cc 1781 cc
Engine Cylinders 12 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 612 HP 74 HP
Engine RPM 4200 RPM 5000 RPM
Torque 848 Nm 140 Nm
Torque RPM 4500 RPM 2500 RPM
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 2050 kg 1210 kg