2006 Mercedes-Benz R vs. 2012 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Mercedes-Benz R. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Mercedes-Benz R would be higher. At 2,987 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz R is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz R (221 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 51 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Passat. (170 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz R should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz R weights approximately 834 kg more than 2012 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 R is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2012 Volkswagen Passat. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz R 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 R (511 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 271 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen Passat. (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz R will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mercedes-Benz R | 2012 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | R | Passat |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2987 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 221 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 511 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 6 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2270 kg | 1436 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5160 mm | 4769 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1930 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1660 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3220 mm | 2712 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 70 L |
