2008 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 2003 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C 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. Both 2008 Mercedes-Benz C and 2003 Volkswagen Passat are equipped with a 2,496 cc engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C (201 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 2003 Volkswagen Passat. (160 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 2003 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 90 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, 2003 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, 2003 Volkswagen Passat (326 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 81 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mercedes-Benz C. (245 Nm @ 2900 RPM). This means 2003 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mercedes-Benz C. 2003 Volkswagen Passat has automatic transmission and 2008 Mercedes-Benz C has manual transmission. 2008 Mercedes-Benz C will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Volkswagen Passat will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Mercedes-Benz C | 2003 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
Model | C | Passat |
Year Released | 2008 | 2003 |
Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2496 cc | 2496 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 201 HP | 160 HP |
Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 245 Nm | 326 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2900 RPM | 1500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 78.3 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 68.4 mm | 86.4 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 11.2:1 | 18.5:1 |
Top Speed | 245 km/hour | 216 km/hour |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.6 seconds | 10.4 seconds |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1530 kg | 1620 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4690 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1750 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1500 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2710 mm |
Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.6 L/100km | 8.7 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 62 L |