2008 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 1990 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 1,780 cc (4 cylinders), 1990 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 80 kg more than 2008 Mercedes-Benz A.
Because 1990 Volkswagen Passat is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2008 Mercedes-Benz A. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1990 Volkswagen Passat 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, 1990 Volkswagen Passat (225 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mercedes-Benz A. (155 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1990 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mercedes-Benz A. 2008 Mercedes-Benz A has automatic transmission and 1990 Volkswagen Passat has manual transmission. 1990 Volkswagen Passat will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Mercedes-Benz A will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz A | 1990 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | A | Passat |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1990 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1699 cc | 1780 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 157 HP |
| Torque | 155 Nm | 225 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83.1 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.5 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 8.0:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.9 seconds | 9.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1240 kg | 1320 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3840 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1600 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.6 L/100km | 7.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 70 L |
