2004 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 2008 Volkswagen Passat

To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Mercedes-Benz E. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Mercedes-Benz E would be higher. At 3,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz E (268 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 120 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen Passat. (148 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 255 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 2004 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 2004 Mercedes-Benz E. 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz E (350 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 150 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen Passat. (200 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen Passat.

Compare all specifications:

2004 Mercedes-Benz E 2008 Volkswagen Passat
Make Mercedes-Benz Volkswagen
Model E Passat
Year Released 2004 2008
Body Type Sedan Station Wagon
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3497 cc 1983 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 268 HP 148 HP
Engine RPM 6000 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 350 Nm 200 Nm
Torque RPM 2400 RPM 3500 RPM
Engine Bore Size 92.9 mm 82.5 mm
Engine Stroke Size 86 mm 92.8 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 10.7:1 11.5:1
Top Speed 250 km/hour 210 km/hour
Acceleration 0-100mph 7.1 seconds 9.6 seconds
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1775 kg 1520 kg
Vehicle Length 4820 mm 4780 mm
Vehicle Width 1830 mm 1830 mm
Vehicle Height 1470 mm 1520 mm
Wheelbase Size 2860 mm 2720 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 80 L 70 L