1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK vs. 2012 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK (134 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Passat. (104 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 235 kg more than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK.
Because 1998 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 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2012 Volkswagen Passat (250 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (190 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK.
Compare all specifications:
1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK | 2012 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
Model | SLK | Passat |
Year Released | 1998 | 2012 |
Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1600 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 134 HP | 104 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Torque | 190 Nm | 250 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Top Speed | 231 km/hour | 198 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1270 kg | 1505 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4769 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1820 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2712 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 L | 70 L |