1980 Volkswagen Passat vs. 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 5,461 cc (8 cylinders), 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL (382 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 297 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. (85 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 1910 kg more than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2010 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 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 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, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL (530 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 404 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. (126 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1980 Volkswagen Passat has manual transmission. 1980 Volkswagen Passat will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1980 Volkswagen Passat | 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | Volkswagen | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Passat | SL |
Year Released | 1980 | 2010 |
Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1588 cc | 5461 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 85 HP | 382 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 126 Nm | 530 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 2800 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 8.2:1 | 10.7:1 |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 920 kg | 2830 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4540 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1820 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1300 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2570 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 80 L |