1998 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2007 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2007 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 2,799 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (204 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 2007 Volkswagen Golf. (168 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2007 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 574 kg more than 2007 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Let's talk about torque, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (270 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Volkswagen Golf. (240 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Volkswagen Golf. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 2007 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 2007 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2007 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | SL | Golf |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2799 cc | 1390 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 204 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 270 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73.5 mm | 75.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.1:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 228 km/hour | 220 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.8 seconds | 7.9 seconds |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1810 kg | 1236 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 55 L |
