2009 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren vs. 1974 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren (641 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 582 more horse power than 1974 Volkswagen Passat. (59 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren should accelerate faster than 1974 Volkswagen Passat.
Because 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren 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 SLR McLaren. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1974 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 SLR McLaren (821 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 727 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Volkswagen Passat. (94 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren | 1974 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | SLR McLaren | Passat |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1974 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5439 cc | 1271 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 641 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 821 Nm | 94 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 72 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4660 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2480 mm |
