2008 Mercedes-Benz R vs. 2003 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz R is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 2,987 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz R is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz R (190 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 2003 Volkswagen Passat. (135 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz R should accelerate faster than 2003 Volkswagen Passat.
Because 2008 Mercedes-Benz R is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 Volkswagen Passat. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz R 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 R (597 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 247 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Volkswagen Passat. (350 Nm @ 1900 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz R will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz R | 2003 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | R | Passat |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2987 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 135 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 597 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1400 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 210 km/hour | 205 km/hour |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 6 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4940 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1930 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1670 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2990 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 62 L |
