2002 Mercedes-Benz C 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 C. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Mercedes-Benz C would be higher. At 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Passat (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 2002 Mercedes-Benz C. (141 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 2002 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 35 kg more than 2002 Mercedes-Benz C. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 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 2002 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Volkswagen Passat (281 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 61 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Mercedes-Benz C. (220 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Mercedes-Benz C.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Mercedes-Benz C | 2008 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | C | Passat |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 281 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Top Speed | 220 km/hour | 232 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.9 seconds | 7.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1465 kg | 1500 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 70 L |
