2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK vs. 1980 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 26 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 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK (228 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 138 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. (90 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 760 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 2006 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 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK. 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK (300 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 155 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. (145 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK | 1980 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
Model | SLK | Passat |
Year Released | 2006 | 1980 |
Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2996 cc | 1781 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 228 HP | 90 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Torque | 300 Nm | 145 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3200 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 81 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 82.1 mm | 86.4 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 11.1:1 | 10.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1720 kg | 960 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 4440 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1690 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1390 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2560 mm |