2005 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 2011 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2011 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Mercedes-Benz C. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Mercedes-Benz C would be higher. At 2,987 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C (221 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 82 more horse power than 2011 Volkswagen Passat. (139 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 2011 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 627 kg more than 2005 Mercedes-Benz C.
Because 2005 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 2005 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C (400 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Volkswagen Passat. (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mercedes-Benz C | 2011 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | C | Passat |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2987 cc | 1968 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 221 HP | 139 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1400 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 18.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 239 km/hour | 209 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.3 seconds | 9.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1680 kg | 2307 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 70 L |
