1995 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2008 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1995 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1995 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 2,799 cc (6 cylinders), 1995 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1995 Mercedes-Benz SL (190 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen Passat. (134 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1995 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1995 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 340 kg more than 2008 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1995 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 1995 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Volkswagen Passat (335 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 1995 Mercedes-Benz SL. (270 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1995 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Compare all specifications:
| 1995 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2008 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | SL | Passat |
| Year Released | 1995 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2799 cc | 1967 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 270 Nm | 335 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73.5 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 18.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 225 km/hour | 205 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.9 seconds | 10 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1830 kg | 1490 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 62 L |
