2004 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1980 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 3,722 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL (242 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 157 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. (85 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 835 kg more than 1980 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, 1980 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 (350 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 224 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. (126 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
2004 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1980 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
Model | SL | Passat |
Year Released | 2004 | 1980 |
Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3722 cc | 1588 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 242 HP | 85 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 350 Nm | 126 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.2:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1755 kg | 920 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4270 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1620 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1370 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2480 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 45 L |