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 1,991 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volkswagen Passat (108 HP @ 4150 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 2006 Mercedes-Benz A. (81 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. 1997 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 75 kg more than 2006 Mercedes-Benz A. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1997 Volkswagen Passat (235 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mercedes-Benz A. (180 Nm @ 1400 RPM). This means 1997 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mercedes-Benz A.
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 | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 81 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 4150 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 235 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1400 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1375 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 |
