1995 Mercedes-Benz SLK vs. 1980 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1995 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 15 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 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1995 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1995 Mercedes-Benz SLK (134 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 81 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. (53 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1995 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1995 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 1030 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 1995 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 SLK. 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, 1995 Mercedes-Benz SLK (191 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 91 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. (100 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1995 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 1995 Mercedes-Benz SLK | 1980 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | SLK | Passat |
| Year Released | 1995 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1587 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 191 Nm | 100 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.7 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2050 kg | 1020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2560 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 53 L | 60 L |
