1994 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2003 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2003 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1994 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1994 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 3,196 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volkswagen Golf (238 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 1994 Mercedes-Benz SL. (190 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1994 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1994 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 212 kg more than 2003 Volkswagen Golf.
Because 1994 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 1994 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2003 Volkswagen Golf (320 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 49 more torque (in Nm) than 1994 Mercedes-Benz SL. (271 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2003 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1994 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Compare all specifications:
| 1994 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2003 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | SL | Golf |
| Year Released | 1994 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2799 cc | 3196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 238 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 271 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73.5 mm | 96 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1760 kg | 1548 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 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 |
