2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK vs. 2008 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 3,597 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK (300 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen Passat. (280 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 46 kg more than 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK.
Because 2008 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, 2008 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, both vehicles can yield 359 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK | 2008 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | SLK | Passat |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3498 cc | 3597 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 300 HP | 280 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 359 Nm | 359 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1310 kg | 1356 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4110 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 9.1 L/100km | 9.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 13.1 L/100km | 14.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.2 L/100km | 12.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 70 L |
