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 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C (141 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Passat. (138 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 69 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, 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 (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 100 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 | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 216 km/hour | 210 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10 seconds | 9.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1525 kg | 1594 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4771 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1516 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2712 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.6 L/100km | 4.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 70 L |
