1971 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1997 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 2,778 cc (6 cylinders), 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL (168 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (148 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 95 kg more than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 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 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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, 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (220 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | SL | Golf |
| Year Released | 1971 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2778 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1360 kg | 1265 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2520 mm |
