2008 Mercedes-Benz ML vs. 2006 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 2,685 cc (5 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML (167 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 63 more horse power than 2006 Volkswagen Passat. (104 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML should accelerate faster than 2006 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML weights approximately 855 kg more than 2006 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 ML 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 ML. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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 ML (400 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 150 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Volkswagen Passat. (250 Nm @ 1900 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Volkswagen Passat. 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML has automatic transmission and 2006 Volkswagen Passat has manual transmission. 2006 Volkswagen Passat will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML | 2006 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | ML | Passat |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2006 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2685 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 167 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 19.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 185 km/hour | 188 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 12.8 seconds | 12.1 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2175 kg | 1320 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1850 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 12.8 L/100km | 5.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 83 L | 70 L |
