1999 Volkswagen Golf vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 6,208 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL (518 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 445 more horse power than 1999 Volkswagen Golf. (73 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1999 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 726 kg more than 1999 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 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 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL (630 Nm @ 5200 RPM) has 504 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Volkswagen Golf. (126 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Volkswagen Golf. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1999 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 1999 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Volkswagen Golf | 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Golf | SL |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1389 cc | 6208 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 73 HP | 518 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Torque | 126 Nm | 630 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Top Speed | 171 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 15.6 seconds | 4.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1213 kg | 1939 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4592 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1298 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2560 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 80 L |
