2001 Volkswagen Passat vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz GLK
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz GLK is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Mercedes-Benz GLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz GLK (268 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 78 more horse power than 2001 Volkswagen Passat. (190 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz GLK should accelerate faster than 2001 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mercedes-Benz GLK weights approximately 325 kg more than 2001 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz GLK (349 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 69 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Volkswagen Passat. (280 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz GLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Volkswagen Passat. 2011 Mercedes-Benz GLK has automatic transmission and 2001 Volkswagen Passat has manual transmission. 2001 Volkswagen Passat will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Mercedes-Benz GLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Volkswagen Passat | 2011 Mercedes-Benz GLK | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Passat | GLK |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2771 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 268 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 349 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1525 kg | 1850 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 4529 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1887 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1699 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2756 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 66 L |
