2009 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 2004 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 5 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 2,996 cc, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C (228 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 58 more horse power than 2004 Volkswagen Passat. (170 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 2004 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 174 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 2009 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 2009 Mercedes-Benz C. 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C (300 Nm) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Volkswagen Passat. (225 Nm). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz C | 2004 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | C | Passat |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2996 cc | 1786 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 225 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82.1 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 9.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1692 kg | 1518 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1470 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1780 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.4 L/100km | 9.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 66 L | 62 L |
