2005 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2003 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 3,724 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz S (242 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 107 more horse power than 2003 Volkswagen Passat. (135 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2003 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 426 kg more than 2003 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 Mercedes-Benz S is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 Volkswagen Passat. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz S 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, both vehicles can yield 350 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles. 2005 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 2003 Volkswagen Passat has manual transmission. 2003 Volkswagen Passat will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mercedes-Benz S | 2003 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | S | Passat |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3724 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 242 HP | 135 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 18.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 241 km/hour | 205 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.9 seconds | 10 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1915 kg | 1489 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 12.1 L/100km | 6.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 88 L | 62 L |
