2008 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 2004 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 1,794 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz E (181 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 2004 Volkswagen Passat. (170 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 2004 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 123 kg more than 2004 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 E 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 E. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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 E (250 Nm) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Volkswagen Passat. (225 Nm). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz E | 2004 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | E | Passat |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1794 cc | 1780 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 181 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 225 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.5:1 | 9.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1580 kg | 1457 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.5 L/100km | 9.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 62 L |
