2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK vs. 2001 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK (300 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 110 more horse power than 2001 Volkswagen Passat. (190 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 2001 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 215 kg more than 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK.
Because 2001 Volkswagen Passat is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK (359 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 79 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Volkswagen Passat. (280 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Volkswagen Passat. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK has automatic transmission and 2001 Volkswagen Passat has manual transmission. 2001 Volkswagen Passat will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK | 2001 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | SLK | Passat |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3498 cc | 2771 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 300 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 359 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | 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 | 1310 kg | 1525 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4110 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 62 L |
