2003 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren vs. 1978 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren (618 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 559 more horse power than 1978 Volkswagen Passat. (59 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren should accelerate faster than 1978 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren weights approximately 888 kg more than 1978 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 SLR McLaren 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 SLR McLaren. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 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 SLR McLaren (781 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 686 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volkswagen Passat. (95 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volkswagen Passat. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren has automatic transmission and 1978 Volkswagen Passat has manual transmission. 1978 Volkswagen Passat will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren | 1978 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
Model | SLR McLaren | Passat |
Year Released | 2003 | 1978 |
Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 5439 cc | 1272 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 618 HP | 59 HP |
Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 781 Nm | 95 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 3400 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 75 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 72 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1768 kg | 880 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4660 mm | 4300 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1630 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1370 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2480 mm |