C-Class W202 vs Passat B4: which is better?
Mercedes-Benz C-Class W202 (1993–2000) vs Volkswagen Passat B4 (1993–1997): specs, fuel economy, tax and common problems.
Mercedes-Benz C-Class W202
Volkswagen Passat B4Specifications
| Mercedes-Benz C-Class W202 | Volkswagen Passat B4 | |
|---|---|---|
| Production years | 1993–2000 | 1993–1997 |
| Body | sedan | sedan |
| Fuel | petrol | petrol |
| Engines | 1.8 (C180) | 2.0 |
| Power, up to | 122 hp | 115 hp |
| Torque, up to | 170 Nm | 166 Nm |
| Gearbox | automatic | manual |
| Drive | rear-wheel drive | front-wheel drive |
| Length | 4 487 mm | 4 606 mm |
| Width | 1 720 mm | 1 720 mm |
| Height | 1 420 mm | 1 430 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2 690 mm | 2 623 mm |
| Fuel tank | 62 L | 70 L |
| KZ tax 2026 (car under 10 years) | ≈ 15 075 ₸ | ≈ 16 475 ₸ |
The better value is highlighted in green.
Pros, cons and common problems
Mercedes-Benz C-Class W202
Pros
- Gearbox Mercedes 722.x (4–5-speed automatic): very reliable
- Sold in all major markets of the region — parts and mechanics available
Cons
- Gearbox Mercedes 722.x (4–5-speed automatic): leaking connector adapter and wiring
- Age: the last cars were built in 2000, condition is everything
Gearbox (Mercedes 722.x (4–5-speed automatic)): very reliable; leaks from the connector adapter and wiring.
Volkswagen Passat B4
Pros
- Large tank: 70 L
- Sold in all major markets of the region — parts and mechanics available
Cons
- Age: the last cars were built in 1997, condition is everything
Which one to choose
- C-Class W202 — if you care more about: power, torque, wheelbase, kz tax 2026.
- Passat B4 — if you care more about: fuel tank.
The condition of a specific car matters more than the model: check the service history and get the engine and gearbox inspected before buying.
FAQ
Which is more powerful: C-Class W202 or Passat B4?
C-Class W202: up to 122 hp, Passat B4: up to 115 hp.
What is the vehicle tax in Kazakhstan?
For 2026, for a car under 10 years old: C-Class W202 — about 15 075 ₸, Passat B4 — about 16 475 ₸ (base engine). A 0.7 factor applies to cars aged 10–20 years and 0.5 to cars over 20.