2001 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 2012 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 11 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 3 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Passat. (158 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 548 kg more than 2012 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, 2012 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, 2012 Volkswagen Passat (250 Nm) has 64 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Mercedes-Benz C. (186 Nm). This means 2012 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Mercedes-Benz C. 2001 Mercedes-Benz C has automatic transmission and 2012 Volkswagen Passat has manual transmission. 2012 Volkswagen Passat will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2001 Mercedes-Benz C | 2012 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
Model | C | Passat |
Year Released | 2001 | 2012 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3201 cc | 1800 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 161 HP | 158 HP |
Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 186 Nm | 250 Nm |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 2050 kg | 1502 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4769 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2712 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 70 L |