1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK vs. 2006 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2006 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK would be higher. At 3,199 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK (215 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 2006 Volkswagen Passat. (148 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 2006 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 190 kg more than 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK.
Because 1999 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 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK (316 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 116 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Volkswagen Passat. (200 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Volkswagen Passat. 2006 Volkswagen Passat has automatic transmission and 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK has manual transmission. 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Volkswagen Passat will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK | 2006 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | SLK | Passat |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3199 cc | 1983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 316 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1330 kg | 1520 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 70 L |
