2009 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2012 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 5,513 cc (12 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL (510 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 230 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Passat. (280 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 338 kg more than 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Because 2009 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 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL. 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL (830 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 481 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen Passat. (349 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2012 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
Model | SL | Passat |
Year Released | 2009 | 2012 |
Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 5513 cc | 3600 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 510 HP | 280 HP |
Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
Torque | 830 Nm | 349 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 2500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed automated manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 1563 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4769 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1820 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2712 mm |
Fuel Consumption Highway | 13.1 L/100km | 8.4 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 70 L |