2009 Mercedes-Benz R vs. 2008 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz R 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 2,985 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz R is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz R (210 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 106 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen Passat. (104 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz R should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 237 kg more than 2009 Mercedes-Benz R.
Because 2009 Mercedes-Benz R is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2008 Volkswagen Passat. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz R (540 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 289 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen Passat. (251 Nm @ 1900 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz R will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen Passat. 2009 Mercedes-Benz R has automatic transmission and 2008 Volkswagen Passat has manual transmission. 2008 Volkswagen Passat will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Mercedes-Benz R will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz R | 2008 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | R | Passat |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2985 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 540 Nm | 251 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 6 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1240 kg | 1477 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5160 mm | 4780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1670 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3220 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.2 L/100km | 5.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 70 L |
