2000 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2012 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2000 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2000 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 3,600 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Passat (280 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 63 more horse power than 2000 Mercedes-Benz SL. (217 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 2000 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 192 kg more than 2012 Volkswagen Passat.
Because 2000 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 2000 Mercedes-Benz SL. 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 (349 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 33 more torque (in Nm) than 2000 Mercedes-Benz SL. (316 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2000 Mercedes-Benz SL. 2012 Volkswagen Passat has automatic transmission and 2000 Mercedes-Benz SL has manual transmission. 2000 Mercedes-Benz SL will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Volkswagen Passat will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2000 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2012 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
Model | SL | Passat |
Year Released | 2000 | 2012 |
Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3199 cc | 3600 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 217 HP | 280 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6200 RPM |
Torque | 316 Nm | 349 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automated manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1755 kg | 1563 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4769 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1820 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2712 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 70 L |