2007 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1988 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL (302 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 212 more horse power than 1988 Volkswagen Passat. (90 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1988 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 718 kg more than 1988 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, 1988 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 (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 318 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Volkswagen Passat. (142 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Volkswagen Passat. 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1988 Volkswagen Passat has manual transmission. 1988 Volkswagen Passat will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2007 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1988 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
Model | SL | Passat |
Year Released | 2007 | 1988 |
Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4966 cc | 1781 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 302 HP | 90 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5250 RPM |
Torque | 460 Nm | 142 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 81 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 86.4 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 177 km/hour |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.3 seconds | 13.9 seconds |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1848 kg | 1130 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4580 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1830 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2630 mm |