2001 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 2008 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Mercedes-Benz A. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Mercedes-Benz A would be higher. At 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Passat (104 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 2001 Mercedes-Benz A. (80 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 2001 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 457 kg more than 2001 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, 2008 Volkswagen Passat (251 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 120 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Mercedes-Benz A. (131 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Mercedes-Benz A | 2008 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | A | Passat |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1397 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 80 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 131 Nm | 251 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 69.5 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1477 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3790 mm | 4780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1590 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 70 L |
