2000 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2003 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2003 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2000 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2000 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 3,199 cc (6 cylinders), 2000 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 Mercedes-Benz SL (217 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 103 more horse power than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. (114 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2000 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 595 kg more than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2000 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 2000 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2000 Mercedes-Benz SL (316 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 160 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. (156 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2000 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. 2003 Volkswagen Golf has automatic transmission and 2000 Mercedes-Benz SL has manual transmission. 2000 Mercedes-Benz SL will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Volkswagen Golf will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2003 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | SL | Golf |
| Year Released | 2000 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3199 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 316 Nm | 156 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 86.9 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1755 kg | 1160 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 55 L |
