2008 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1998 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C (268 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 167 more horse power than 1998 Volkswagen Passat. (101 HP @ 5300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1998 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 285 kg more than 1998 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, 1998 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 (350 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 210 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Volkswagen Passat. (140 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Mercedes-Benz C | 1998 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
Model | C | Passat |
Year Released | 2008 | 1998 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3498 cc | 1595 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 268 HP | 101 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5300 RPM |
Torque | 350 Nm | 140 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3800 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 1275 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4680 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1980 mm | 1750 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2710 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 55 L |