1970 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2011 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2011 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 41 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 2,778 cc (6 cylinders), 1970 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Volkswagen Golf (170 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 1970 Mercedes-Benz SL. (168 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1970 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1970 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 14 kg more than 2011 Volkswagen Golf.
Because 1970 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 1970 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 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, both vehicles can yield 240 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:
| 1970 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2011 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | SL | Golf |
| Year Released | 1970 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2778 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1360 kg | 1346 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4199 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2578 mm |
