2001 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1997 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL (302 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 202 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Passat. (100 HP @ 5300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 570 kg more than 1997 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 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 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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, 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 320 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Passat. (140 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Passat. 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1997 Volkswagen Passat has manual transmission. 1997 Volkswagen Passat will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2001 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1997 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
Model | SL | Passat |
Year Released | 2001 | 1997 |
Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4966 cc | 1594 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 302 HP | 100 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5300 RPM |
Torque | 460 Nm | 140 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 3800 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 81 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 77.4 mm |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1845 kg | 1275 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4680 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1750 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2710 mm |