2005 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 1990 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz E 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 3,199 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz E (221 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 64 more horse power than 1990 Volkswagen Passat. (157 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1990 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 440 kg more than 1990 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1990 Volkswagen Passat is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2005 Mercedes-Benz E. 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 E (315 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Volkswagen Passat. (225 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Volkswagen Passat. 2005 Mercedes-Benz E has automatic transmission and 1990 Volkswagen Passat has manual transmission. 1990 Volkswagen Passat will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Mercedes-Benz E will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mercedes-Benz E | 1990 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | E | Passat |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1990 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3199 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 221 HP | 157 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 315 Nm | 225 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 233 km/hour | 210 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.5 seconds | 9.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1785 kg | 1345 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 10.6 L/100km | 8.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 70 L |
