2008 Mercedes-Benz G 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 G. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Mercedes-Benz G would be higher. At 2,688 cc (5 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz G is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Passat (170 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 2008 Mercedes-Benz G. (154 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 2008 Mercedes-Benz G. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 315 kg more than 2008 Mercedes-Benz G. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Mercedes-Benz G is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2012 Volkswagen Passat. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz G will offer significantly more control. 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 G (400 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 160 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen Passat. (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz G will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz G | 2012 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | G | Passat |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2012 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2688 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 154 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1146 kg | 1461 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4769 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1940 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2712 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 96 L | 70 L |
