2009 Mercedes-Benz GL vs. 1996 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL 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 4,662 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL (335 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 261 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. (74 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL weights approximately 15 kg more than 1996 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 GL is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 320 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. (140 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL 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 GL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Mercedes-Benz GL | 1996 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
Model | GL | Passat |
Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
Body Type | SUV | Station Wagon |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4662 cc | 1781 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 335 HP | 74 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 460 Nm | 140 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 2500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 92.9 mm | 81 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 86.4 mm |
Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 1210 kg |
Vehicle Width | 1930 mm | 1620 mm |