2002 Mercedes-Benz SLK vs. 1974 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SLK (161 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 87 more horse power than 1974 Volkswagen Passat. (74 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1974 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 370 kg more than 1974 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 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 2002 Mercedes-Benz SLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1974 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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SLK (234 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 119 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Volkswagen Passat. (115 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
2002 Mercedes-Benz SLK | 1974 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
Model | SLK | Passat |
Year Released | 2002 | 1974 |
Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1471 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 161 HP | 74 HP |
Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 234 Nm | 115 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3300 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1290 kg | 920 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4200 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1630 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1370 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2480 mm |