2006 Mercedes-Benz ML vs. 1997 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz ML 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 4,965 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz ML is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz ML (288 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 188 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Passat. (100 HP @ 5300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz ML should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz ML weights approximately 935 kg more than 1997 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 Mercedes-Benz ML is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Volkswagen Passat. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz ML 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 ML (440 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 300 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Passat. (140 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz ML will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Passat. 2006 Mercedes-Benz ML 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 ML will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mercedes-Benz ML | 1997 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | ML | Passat |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1997 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4965 cc | 1594 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 288 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 440 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 77.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2210 kg | 1275 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1830 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 83 L | 55 L |
