2003 Mercedes-Benz E 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 E. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mercedes-Benz E would be higher. At 3,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Passat (271 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 97 more horse power than 2003 Mercedes-Benz E. (174 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 2003 Mercedes-Benz E. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 55 kg more than 2008 Volkswagen Passat.
Because 2008 Volkswagen Passat is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 Mercedes-Benz E. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Passat will offer significantly more control. 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 (371 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 131 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mercedes-Benz E. (240 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mercedes-Benz E.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mercedes-Benz E | 2008 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | E | Passat |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 3999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | W |
| Horse Power | 174 HP | 271 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 371 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 90.2 mm |
| Top Speed | 214 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1720 kg | 1665 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 80 L |
