2002 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2009 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 7 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 3,724 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (241 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 83 more horse power than 2009 Volkswagen Passat. (158 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2009 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 467 kg more than 2002 Mercedes-Benz S.
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, 2009 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 (350 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Volkswagen Passat. (250 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Volkswagen Passat. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 2009 Volkswagen Passat has manual transmission. 2009 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 | 2009 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | S | Passat |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3724 cc | 1798 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 241 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 84.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.8:1 |
| Top Speed | 246 km/hour | 220 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.9 seconds | 8.9 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 | 1840 kg | 2307 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5170 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1480 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1830 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3090 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 88 L | 70 L |
