2004 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1988 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C (189 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 99 more horse power than 1988 Volkswagen Passat. (90 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1988 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 345 kg more than 1988 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Mercedes-Benz C 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 2004 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C (260 Nm) has 118 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Volkswagen Passat. (142 Nm). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mercedes-Benz C | 1988 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | C | Passat |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 260 Nm | 142 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 240 km/hour | 177 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.4 seconds | 13.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1475 kg | 1130 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2630 mm |
