1995 Mercedes-Benz SLK vs. 1978 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1995 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1995 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1995 Mercedes-Benz SLK (134 HP) has 85 more horse power than 1978 Volkswagen Golf. (49 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1995 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1978 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1995 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 1220 kg more than 1978 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1995 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 1995 Mercedes-Benz SLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 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, 1995 Mercedes-Benz SLK (191 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 110 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volkswagen Golf. (81 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1995 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volkswagen Golf. 1995 Mercedes-Benz SLK has automatic transmission and 1978 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 1978 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1995 Mercedes-Benz SLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1995 Mercedes-Benz SLK | 1978 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
Model | SLK | Golf |
Year Released | 1995 | 1978 |
Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1471 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 134 HP | 49 HP |
Torque | 191 Nm | 81 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 76.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 78.7 mm | 80 mm |
Top Speed | 203 km/hour | 138 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 2050 kg | 830 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 3730 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1620 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2410 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 53 L | 45 L |