2004 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren vs. 1996 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren (617 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 543 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. (74 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren weights approximately 558 kg more than 1996 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 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 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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 SLR McLaren (780 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 640 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. (140 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren has automatic transmission and 1996 Volkswagen Passat has manual transmission. 1996 Volkswagen Passat will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2004 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren | 1996 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
Model | SLR McLaren | Passat |
Year Released | 2004 | 1996 |
Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 5439 cc | 1781 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 617 HP | 74 HP |
Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 780 Nm | 140 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 2500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 81 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 86.4 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 | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1768 kg | 1210 kg |
Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1620 mm |