2005 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1990 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 2,148 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 Volkswagen Passat (157 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 2005 Mercedes-Benz C. (120 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1990 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 2005 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 210 kg more than 1990 Volkswagen Passat.
Because 1990 Volkswagen Passat is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2005 Mercedes-Benz C. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1990 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C (270 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Volkswagen Passat. (225 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mercedes-Benz C | 1990 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | C | Passat |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1990 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2148 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 157 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 270 Nm | 225 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.3 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 8.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 202 km/hour | 210 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 12.5 seconds | 9.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1555 kg | 1345 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.3 L/100km | 8.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 70 L |
