1964 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2003 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2003 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 39 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1964 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1964 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 2,306 cc (6 cylinders), 1964 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1964 Mercedes-Benz SL (148 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 2003 Volkswagen Passat. (135 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1964 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2003 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 187 kg more than 1964 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Because 1964 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 1964 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2003 Volkswagen Passat (350 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 154 more torque (in Nm) than 1964 Mercedes-Benz SL. (196 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2003 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1964 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Compare all specifications:
| 1964 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2003 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | SL | Passat |
| Year Released | 1964 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2306 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 135 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 196 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72.8 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1302 kg | 1489 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2710 mm |
