2009 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 2008 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 1,983 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C (161 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen Passat. (148 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 5 kg more than 2008 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, 2008 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 (241 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 41 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen Passat. (200 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz C | 2008 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | C | Passat |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 161 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 241 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 228 km/hour | 210 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.4 seconds | 9.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1525 kg | 1520 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.7 L/100km | 8.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 70 L |
