1995 Mercedes-Benz SLK vs. 2004 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1995 Mercedes-Benz SLK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1995 Mercedes-Benz SLK would be higher. At 3,196 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen Golf (238 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 1995 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (190 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1995 Mercedes-Benz SLK. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1995 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 502 kg more than 2004 Volkswagen Golf.
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, 2004 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, 2004 Volkswagen Golf (320 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1995 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (280 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2004 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1995 Mercedes-Benz SLK.
Compare all specifications:
| 1995 Mercedes-Benz SLK | 2004 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | SLK | Golf |
| Year Released | 1995 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2295 cc | 3196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 238 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 11.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2050 kg | 1548 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4180 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 7 L/100km | 9.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 13.3 L/100km | 12.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 53 L | 62 L |
