2007 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1997 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL (469 HP @ 2650 RPM) has 321 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Passat. (148 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 500 kg more than 1997 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 Volkswagen Passat is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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, 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL (701 Nm @ 2650 RPM) has 495 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Passat. (206 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Passat. 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1997 Volkswagen Passat has manual transmission. 1997 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 | 1997 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
Model | SL | Passat |
Year Released | 2007 | 1997 |
Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 5439 cc | 2327 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 469 HP | 148 HP |
Engine RPM | 2650 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 701 Nm | 206 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2650 RPM | 3200 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 81 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 90.2 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1955 kg | 1455 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4680 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1750 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2710 mm |