lowlander

Hi there,

Anyone got any opinions on the above comparison.

Not interested in tuning the cars, just looking for reliable everyday transport with a slight sporting edge. Will be looking at 2004 / 2005 cars (i.e. not the current passat)

Thanks.

Martin.

brickboy

I drove both plus the Laguna 2.2 when looking for company wheels three years ago.

Mondeo handling is in a different league, and the TDCi motor is good too, smooth and free-revving. Didn't like the interior though.

The Passat's handling is "safe". It goes more or less where you want without too much roll and understeer but not much feedback. I like the power / torque characteristics better, the engine feels much more grunty low-down than the Ford. It's a great everyday car for A-roads & M-ways, just doesn't encourage you to chuck it around the twisties.

I chose the Passat because 1) I preferred the interior 2) engine drivability.
It's got all the toys, 6 CD in dash changer, climate etc etc.

Mine has averaged 47mpg in 40K miles, nothing gone wrong at all. Service every 10K miles, cambelt at 60K.

PM me if you want the full essay

ALi-B

iTrader: (1)

I haven't driven the 130 mondeo, but have driven the lower powered version, which imo has quite a laggy turbo for a diesel. The passat was a lot more responsive. But I prefered the Mondeo's handling and feel as the Passat seemed somewhat detached to drive.

The Lagunas are very good also, and I would place it inbetween the Passat and Mondeo. But the reliability would scare me.