2008 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 2003 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 249 kg more than 2008 Mercedes-Benz A.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2003 Volkswagen Passat (350 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 195 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mercedes-Benz A. (155 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2003 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 2003 Volkswagen Passat has manual transmission. 2003 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 | 2003 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
Model | A | Passat |
Year Released | 2008 | 2003 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1699 cc | 1896 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 0 HP | 135 HP |
Torque | 155 Nm | 350 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1900 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 83.1 mm | 81 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 78.5 mm | 95.5 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 18.5:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.9 seconds | 10 seconds |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1240 kg | 1489 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3840 mm | 4690 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1750 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1600 mm | 1500 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2710 mm |
Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.6 L/100km | 6.3 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 62 L |