2001 Mercedes-Benz ML vs. 1996 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 3,994 cc (8 cylinders), 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML (247 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 193 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. (54 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML weights approximately 1475 kg more than 1996 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 ML is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML 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, 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML (560 Nm @ 1700 RPM) has 468 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. (92 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML has automatic transmission and 1996 Volkswagen Passat has manual transmission. 1996 Volkswagen Passat will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML | 1996 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | ML | Passat |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3994 cc | 1272 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 247 HP | 54 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 560 Nm | 92 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1700 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 75.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.5:1 | 8.2:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2335 kg | 860 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1830 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2480 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 83 L | 45 L |
