2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK vs. 2004 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK (228 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 105 more horse power than 2004 Volkswagen Passat. (123 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 2004 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 120 kg more than 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK.
Because 2004 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, 2004 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, 2004 Volkswagen Passat (310 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 9 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (301 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2004 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK | 2004 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | SLK | Passat |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2996 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 301 Nm | 310 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.3 seconds | 10.4 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1265 kg | 1385 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
