2008 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1996 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 12 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 2,496 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C (201 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 147 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. (54 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 670 kg more than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1996 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 (245 Nm @ 2900 RPM) has 153 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. (92 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz C | 1996 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | C | Passat |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2496 cc | 1272 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 54 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 92 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2900 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 75.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 68.4 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.2:1 | 8.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1530 kg | 860 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2480 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 45 L |
