2004 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1978 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 26 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 5,513 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL (493 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 446 more horse power than 1978 Volkswagen Passat. (47 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1978 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 1044 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 2004 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 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL. 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL (700 Nm) has 617 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volkswagen Passat. (83 Nm). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1978 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | SL | Passat |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5513 cc | 1457 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 493 HP | 47 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 700 Nm | 83 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 80 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1959 kg | 915 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2400 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 91 L | 45 L |
