2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK vs. 1988 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK (355 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 281 more horse power than 1988 Volkswagen Passat. (74 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1988 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 440 kg more than 1988 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 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 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 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 SLK (500 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 379 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Volkswagen Passat. (121 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Volkswagen Passat. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK has automatic transmission and 1988 Volkswagen Passat has manual transmission. 1988 Volkswagen Passat will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK | 1988 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
Model | SLK | Passat |
Year Released | 2004 | 1988 |
Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 5439 cc | 1780 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 355 HP | 74 HP |
Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Torque | 500 Nm | 121 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2600 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1540 kg | 1100 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 4580 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1710 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1430 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2630 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 42 L |