1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK vs. 1973 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK (134 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 85 more horse power than 1973 Volkswagen Passat. (49 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1973 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 355 kg more than 1973 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 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 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1973 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 SLK (190 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 108 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Volkswagen Passat. (82 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK | 1973 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
Model | SLK | Passat |
Year Released | 1996 | 1973 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1471 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 134 HP | 49 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 190 Nm | 82 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 76.6 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 78.7 mm | 80 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1270 kg | 915 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4200 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1630 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1370 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2480 mm |