2003 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1985 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL (302 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 213 more horse power than 1985 Volkswagen Passat. (89 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1985 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 865 kg more than 1985 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 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 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1985 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 314 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Volkswagen Passat. (146 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1985 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
Model | SL | Passat |
Year Released | 2003 | 1985 |
Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4966 cc | 1781 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 302 HP | 89 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Torque | 460 Nm | 146 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 3300 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1905 kg | 1040 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4540 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1720 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1390 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2560 mm |