1996 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2009 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 4,973 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL (317 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 159 more horse power than 2009 Volkswagen Passat. (158 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2009 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 467 kg more than 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Because 1996 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 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL (471 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 221 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Volkswagen Passat. (250 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Volkswagen Passat. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 2009 Volkswagen Passat has manual transmission. 2009 Volkswagen Passat will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2009 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
Model | SL | Passat |
Year Released | 1996 | 2009 |
Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4973 cc | 1798 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 317 HP | 158 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 471 Nm | 250 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 1500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1840 kg | 2307 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4770 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1480 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1830 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2720 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 70 L |