1986 Volkswagen Golf vs. 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 5,980 cc (12 cylinders), 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL (605 HP) has 552 more horse power than 1986 Volkswagen Golf. (53 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1986 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 2000 kg more than 1986 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2010 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 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 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, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL (1,000 Nm) has 904 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Volkswagen Golf. (96 Nm). This means 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Volkswagen Golf | 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Golf | SL |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1272 cc | 5980 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 605 HP |
| Torque | 96 Nm | 1000 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 75 mm | 82.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 830 kg | 2830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3990 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.4 L/100km | 16.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 80 L |
