1966 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2008 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 42 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 2,306 cc (6 cylinders), 1966 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1966 Mercedes-Benz SL (149 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. (114 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1966 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1966 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 16 kg more than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1966 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 1966 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Golf, 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, 1966 Mercedes-Benz SL (196 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 26 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1966 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1966 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2008 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | SL | Golf |
| Year Released | 1966 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2306 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 149 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 196 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 21.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1284 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 55 L |
