1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK vs. 1979 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 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) has 85 more horse power than 1979 Volkswagen Passat. (49 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1979 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 325 kg more than 1979 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, 1979 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 1979 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 1979 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK | 1979 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | SLK | Passat |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1979 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
| 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 |
| 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 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1270 kg | 945 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2480 mm |
