1998 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1973 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 25 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 2,799 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (204 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 96 more horse power than 1973 Volkswagen Passat. (108 HP @ 6100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1973 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 900 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 1998 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 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. 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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (270 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 130 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Volkswagen Passat. (140 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1973 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | SL | Passat |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1973 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2799 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 204 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 270 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73.5 mm | 80 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1810 kg | 910 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2480 mm |
