2006 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 1997 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 2,327 cc (5 cylinders), 1997 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volkswagen Passat (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 2006 Mercedes-Benz A. (108 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 2006 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 330 kg more than 1997 Volkswagen Passat.
Because 1997 Volkswagen Passat is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2006 Mercedes-Benz A. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz A (250 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 44 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Passat. (206 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Passat. 2006 Mercedes-Benz A has automatic transmission and 1997 Volkswagen Passat has manual transmission. 1997 Volkswagen Passat will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Mercedes-Benz A will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mercedes-Benz A | 1997 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | A | Passat |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 2327 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 206 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 90.2 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1785 kg | 1455 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3840 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1600 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2710 mm |
