2010 Mercedes-Benz CLS vs. 2008 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2010 Mercedes-Benz CLS is newer by 2 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 5,500 cc (8 cylinders), 2010 Mercedes-Benz CLS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Mercedes-Benz CLS (382 HP) has 204 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen Passat. (178 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2010 Mercedes-Benz CLS should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Mercedes-Benz CLS weights approximately 252 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 2008 Volkswagen Passat is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2010 Mercedes-Benz CLS. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Passat 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, 2010 Mercedes-Benz CLS (530 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 159 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen Passat. (371 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 2010 Mercedes-Benz CLS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 2010 Mercedes-Benz CLS | 2008 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | CLS | Passat |
| Year Released | 2010 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5500 cc | 2496 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 382 HP | 178 HP |
| Torque | 530 Nm | 371 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1835 kg | 1583 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4917 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1872 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1415 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2855 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 62 L |
