2003 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 2012 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 9 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 3,199 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz E (220 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 100 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Passat. (120 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 301 kg more than 2012 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 E 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 E. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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 E (315 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 115 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen Passat. (200 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen Passat. 2003 Mercedes-Benz E has automatic transmission and 2012 Volkswagen Passat has manual transmission. 2012 Volkswagen Passat will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Mercedes-Benz E will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Mercedes-Benz E | 2012 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
Model | E | Passat |
Year Released | 2003 | 2012 |
Body Type | Station Wagon | Station Wagon |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3199 cc | 1400 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 220 HP | 120 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 315 Nm | 200 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
Top Speed | 233 km/hour | 204 km/hour |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.5 seconds | 10.3 seconds |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1785 kg | 1484 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 4771 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1820 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1516 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2712 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 70 L |