1990 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2002 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2002 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 3,196 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Volkswagen Golf (238 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL. (228 HP @ 6400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 142 kg more than 2002 Volkswagen Golf.
Because 1990 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 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, 2002 Volkswagen Golf (320 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 53 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL. (267 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2002 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Compare all specifications:
1990 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2002 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
Model | SL | Golf |
Year Released | 1990 | 2002 |
Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2962 cc | 3196 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 228 HP | 238 HP |
Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 6250 RPM |
Torque | 267 Nm | 320 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 2800 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 11.3:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1690 kg | 1548 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4180 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1740 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1430 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2470 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 62 L |