1990 Volkswagen Passat vs. 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL (228 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 71 more horse power than 1990 Volkswagen Passat. (157 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1990 Volkswagen Passat.
Because 1990 Volkswagen Passat is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1990 Volkswagen Passat will offer significantly more control. 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 (300 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Volkswagen Passat. (225 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Volkswagen Passat. 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1990 Volkswagen Passat has manual transmission. 1990 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:
| 1990 Volkswagen Passat | 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Passat | SL |
| Year Released | 1990 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1780 cc | 2996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 157 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 225 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Top Speed | 216 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.6 seconds | 7.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4580 mm | 4582 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1298 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2560 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 80 L |
