1970 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2012 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 42 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 2,778 cc (6 cylinders), 1970 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 168 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 200 kg more than 1970 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Because 1970 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 1970 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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 Volkswagen Passat (350 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 110 more torque (in Nm) than 1970 Mercedes-Benz SL. (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1970 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Compare all specifications:
1970 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2012 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
Model | SL | Passat |
Year Released | 1970 | 2012 |
Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2778 cc | 1400 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 168 HP | 168 HP |
Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 4200 RPM |
Torque | 240 Nm | 350 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 1750 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1360 kg | 1560 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4769 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1820 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2712 mm |