1997 Volkswagen Golf vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK (201 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (148 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 235 kg more than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 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 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK (310 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (220 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Volkswagen Golf | 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
Make | Volkswagen | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Golf | SLK |
Year Released | 1997 | 2011 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1781 cc | 1796 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 148 HP | 201 HP |
Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 220 Nm | 310 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 2000 RPM |
Top Speed | 212 km/hour | 243 km/hour |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.4 seconds | 6.6 seconds |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1265 kg | 1500 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4135 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1816 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1300 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2431 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 60 L |