2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK vs. 2005 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK (268 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 120 more horse power than 2005 Volkswagen Passat. (148 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 2005 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 367 kg more than 2005 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, 2005 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 (510 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 310 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Volkswagen Passat. (200 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK | 2005 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | SLK | Passat |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3498 cc | 1982 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 268 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 510 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 97.1 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 11.5:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 4.9 seconds | 10.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1785 kg | 1418 kg |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2590 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 9.4 L/100km | 6.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 12 L/100km | 8.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 70 L |
