1990 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2013 Volkswagen GTI
To start off, 2013 Volkswagen GTI is newer by 23 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 2,962 cc (6 cylinders), 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL (228 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 31 more horse power than 2013 Volkswagen GTI. (197 HP @ 5100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2013 Volkswagen GTI. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 278 kg more than 2013 Volkswagen GTI. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2013 Volkswagen GTI, 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, 2013 Volkswagen GTI (281 Nm @ 1700 RPM) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL. (267 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2013 Volkswagen GTI 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 | 2013 Volkswagen GTI | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | SL | GTI |
| Year Released | 1990 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2962 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 267 Nm | 281 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 1700 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.6:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1690 kg | 1412 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4213 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1779 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1469 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 55 L |
