2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK vs. 2003 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 3,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volkswagen Passat (270 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (268 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 504 kg more than 2003 Volkswagen Passat.
Because 2003 Volkswagen Passat is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Volkswagen Passat will offer significantly more control. 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 Volkswagen Passat (370 Nm) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (350 Nm). This means 2003 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK. 2003 Volkswagen Passat has automatic transmission and 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK has manual transmission. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Volkswagen Passat will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK | 2003 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | SLK | Passat |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3498 cc | 3999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | W |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 268 HP | 270 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2052 kg | 1548 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
