2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK vs. 2012 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 58 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Passat. (170 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 2012 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, 2012 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 60 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen Passat. (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK | 2012 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | SLK | Passat |
| Year Released | 2007 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2996 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 4769 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2712 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 8.7 L/100km | 7.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 11.8 L/100km | 11.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 70 L |
