2008 Mercedes-Benz C 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 C. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Mercedes-Benz C would be higher. At 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Passat (170 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 2008 Mercedes-Benz C. (141 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 2008 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 64 kg more than 2012 Volkswagen Passat.
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, 2012 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, 2012 Volkswagen Passat (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mercedes-Benz C. (220 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mercedes-Benz C.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz C | 2012 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | C | Passat |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1525 kg | 1461 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4769 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2712 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 70 L |
