2007 Mercedes-Benz B vs. 1988 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2007 Mercedes-Benz B is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 2,034 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Mercedes-Benz B is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mercedes-Benz B (190 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 123 more horse power than 1988 Volkswagen Passat. (67 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mercedes-Benz B should accelerate faster than 1988 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Mercedes-Benz B weights approximately 190 kg more than 1988 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2007 Mercedes-Benz B is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2007 Mercedes-Benz B. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Volkswagen Passat, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2007 Mercedes-Benz B (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 156 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Volkswagen Passat. (124 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2007 Mercedes-Benz B will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Volkswagen Passat. 2007 Mercedes-Benz B has automatic transmission and 1988 Volkswagen Passat has manual transmission. 1988 Volkswagen Passat will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2007 Mercedes-Benz B will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Mercedes-Benz B | 1988 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | B | Passat |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2034 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 67 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 124 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1370 kg | 1180 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4280 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1610 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1780 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2780 mm | 2630 mm |
