2003 Mercedes-Benz CL vs. 2008 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mercedes-Benz CL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mercedes-Benz CL would be higher. At 5,980 cc (12 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz CL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz CL (603 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 455 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen Passat. (148 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz CL should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz CL weights approximately 735 kg more than 2008 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Mercedes-Benz CL 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 2003 Mercedes-Benz CL. 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz CL (1,000 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 790 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen Passat. (210 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz CL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen Passat. 2003 Mercedes-Benz CL 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. 2003 Mercedes-Benz CL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Mercedes-Benz CL | 2008 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
Model | CL | Passat |
Year Released | 2003 | 2008 |
Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 5980 cc | 1781 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 5 valves |
Horse Power | 603 HP | 148 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5700 RPM |
Torque | 1000 Nm | 210 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.3:1 |
Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 209 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 2155 kg | 1420 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5000 mm | 4690 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1750 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1500 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2710 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 88 L | 62 L |