2008 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1993 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1993 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1993 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 5,980 cc (12 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL (604 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 515 more horse power than 1993 Volkswagen Passat. (89 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1993 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 900 kg more than 1993 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 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 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1993 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL (1,000 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 855 more torque (in Nm) than 1993 Volkswagen Passat. (145 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1993 Volkswagen Passat. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1993 Volkswagen Passat has manual transmission. 1993 Volkswagen Passat will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1993 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | SL | Passat |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1993 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5980 cc | 1780 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 604 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 1000 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2120 kg | 1220 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1730 mm |
