2001 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 2006 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2006 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Mercedes-Benz C. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Mercedes-Benz C would be higher. At 3,201 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Mercedes-Benz C (161 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 2006 Volkswagen Passat. (148 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 2006 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 530 kg more than 2006 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 Mercedes-Benz C 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 2001 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2006 Volkswagen Passat (200 Nm) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Mercedes-Benz C. (186 Nm). This means 2006 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Mercedes-Benz C.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Mercedes-Benz C | 2006 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | C | Passat |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 1983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 161 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 186 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2050 kg | 1520 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4780 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 70 L |
