2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK vs. 1978 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK (228 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 181 more horse power than 1978 Volkswagen Passat. (47 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1978 Volkswagen Passat.
Because 2007 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 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 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 SLK (300 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 217 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volkswagen Passat. (83 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK | 1978 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | SLK | Passat |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2996 cc | 1457 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 47 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 83 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2400 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 10.7 L/100km | 6.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 45 L |
