2012 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 2011 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2011 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2011 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 5,500 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz E (518 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 360 more horse power than 2011 Volkswagen Passat. (158 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 2011 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 365 kg more than 2012 Mercedes-Benz E.
Because 2012 Mercedes-Benz E 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 2012 Mercedes-Benz E. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz E (699 Nm @ 1700 RPM) has 449 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Volkswagen Passat. (250 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Volkswagen Passat. 2012 Mercedes-Benz E has automatic transmission and 2011 Volkswagen Passat has manual transmission. 2011 Volkswagen Passat will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Mercedes-Benz E will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2012 Mercedes-Benz E | 2011 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
Model | E | Passat |
Year Released | 2012 | 2011 |
Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 5500 cc | 1798 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 518 HP | 158 HP |
Engine RPM | 6800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 699 Nm | 250 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1700 RPM | 1500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | 7-speed automated manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1942 kg | 2307 kg |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 70 L |