2007 Mercedes-Benz R vs. 1996 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2007 Mercedes-Benz R is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 2,987 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 Mercedes-Benz R is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mercedes-Benz R (187 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 87 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. (100 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mercedes-Benz R should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Passat.
Because 2007 Mercedes-Benz R is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 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, 2007 Mercedes-Benz R (440 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 295 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. (145 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2007 Mercedes-Benz R will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. 2007 Mercedes-Benz R has automatic transmission and 1996 Volkswagen Passat has manual transmission. 1996 Volkswagen Passat will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2007 Mercedes-Benz R will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Mercedes-Benz R | 1996 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | R | Passat |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2987 cc | 1593 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 187 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 440 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1400 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 77.4 mm |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 6 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4930 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1930 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1660 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2990 mm | 2710 mm |
