2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS vs. 1996 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS (288 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 188 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. (100 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Passat.
Because 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS 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 CLS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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 CLS (365 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 220 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. (145 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS has automatic transmission and 1996 Volkswagen Passat has manual transmission. 1996 Volkswagen Passat will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS | 1996 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
Model | CLS | Passat |
Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3498 cc | 1593 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 288 HP | 100 HP |
Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 365 Nm | 145 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 81 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 77.4 mm |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 4680 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1750 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2710 mm |