2002 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2003 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2003 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 4,266 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (275 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 114 more horse power than 2003 Volkswagen Passat. (161 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2003 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 361 kg more than 2003 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 Mercedes-Benz S 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 S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (401 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 91 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Volkswagen Passat. (310 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Volkswagen Passat. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 2003 Volkswagen Passat has manual transmission. 2003 Volkswagen Passat will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2002 Mercedes-Benz S | 2003 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
Model | S | Passat |
Year Released | 2002 | 2003 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4266 cc | 2496 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Horse Power | 275 HP | 161 HP |
Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 401 Nm | 310 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 78.3 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 86.4 mm |
Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 225 km/hour |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.3 seconds | 9.1 seconds |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1895 kg | 1534 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5170 mm | 4710 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1750 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 3090 mm | 2590 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 88 L | 62 L |