2004 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1998 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 2,597 cc (5 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C (169 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 68 more horse power than 1998 Volkswagen Passat. (101 HP @ 5300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1998 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 310 kg more than 1998 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, 1998 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 (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 260 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Volkswagen Passat. (140 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Volkswagen Passat. 2004 Mercedes-Benz C has automatic transmission and 1998 Volkswagen Passat has manual transmission. 1998 Volkswagen Passat will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2004 Mercedes-Benz C | 1998 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
Model | C | Passat |
Year Released | 2004 | 1998 |
Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2597 cc | 1595 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 169 HP | 101 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5300 RPM |
Torque | 400 Nm | 140 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 81 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 88.3 mm | 77.4 mm |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1585 kg | 1275 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4620 mm | 4680 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1750 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2710 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 69 L | 55 L |