1996 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2011 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2011 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 15 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 5,956 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL (375 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 237 more horse power than 2011 Volkswagen Passat. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2011 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 803 kg more than 2011 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2011 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 (580 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 260 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Volkswagen Passat. (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2011 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
Model | SL | Passat |
Year Released | 1996 | 2011 |
Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 5956 cc | 1968 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 375 HP | 138 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 580 Nm | 320 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 1750 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 18.5:1 |
Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 204 km/hour |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 5.8 seconds | 9.8 seconds |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 2050 kg | 1247 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4770 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1830 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1480 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2720 mm |
Fuel Consumption Overall | 10.7 L/100km | 6.6 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 70 L |