2008 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1993 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1993 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1993 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C (228 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 1993 Volkswagen Passat. (172 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1993 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1993 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 164 kg more than 2008 Mercedes-Benz C.
Because 2008 Mercedes-Benz C 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 2008 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1993 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C (300 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 1993 Volkswagen Passat. (235 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1993 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz C | 1993 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | C | Passat |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1993 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2996 cc | 2792 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 172 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 235 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1240 kg | 1404 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1620 mm |
