2002 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 2008 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Mercedes-Benz A. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Mercedes-Benz A would be higher. At 2,496 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Passat (161 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 2002 Mercedes-Benz A. (138 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 2002 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 315 kg more than 2002 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 (350 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 144 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Mercedes-Benz A. (206 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Mercedes-Benz A | 2008 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | A | Passat |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2148 cc | 2496 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 161 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 206 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 78.3 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Top Speed | 203 km/hour | 226 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.4 seconds | 8.7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1195 kg | 1510 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3820 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 62 L |
