2008 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 2012 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Mercedes-Benz A. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Mercedes-Benz A would be higher. At 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 91 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz A (250 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen Passat. (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen Passat. 2012 Volkswagen Passat has automatic transmission and 2008 Mercedes-Benz A has manual transmission. 2008 Mercedes-Benz A will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Volkswagen Passat will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz A | 2012 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | A | Passat |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 170 HP |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1345 kg | 1436 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4769 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2712 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 70 L |
