2007 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1974 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 5,980 cc (12 cylinders), 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL (604 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 530 more horse power than 1974 Volkswagen Passat. (74 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1974 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 1200 kg more than 1974 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1974 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, 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL (1,000 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 885 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Volkswagen Passat. (115 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
2007 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1974 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
Model | SL | Passat |
Year Released | 2007 | 1974 |
Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 5980 cc | 1471 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 604 HP | 74 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 1000 Nm | 115 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3300 RPM |
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 | 2120 kg | 920 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4200 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1630 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1370 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2480 mm |