2002 Mercedes-Benz S 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 S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 5,513 cc (12 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 761 kg more than 2008 Volkswagen Passat.
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, 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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (801 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 591 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen Passat. (210 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen Passat. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 2008 Volkswagen Passat has manual transmission. 2008 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 | 2008 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | S | Passat |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5513 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 493 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 801 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 216 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 4.8 seconds | 9.2 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 | 2135 kg | 1374 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5170 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 88 L | 62 L |
