2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK vs. 2010 Volkswagen GTI
To start off, 2010 Volkswagen GTI is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2010 Volkswagen GTI is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Volkswagen GTI (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 105 more horse power than 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (95 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Volkswagen GTI should accelerate faster than 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 99 kg more than 2010 Volkswagen GTI.
Because 2001 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 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2010 Volkswagen GTI, 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, 2010 Volkswagen GTI (280 Nm) has 102 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (178 Nm). This means 2010 Volkswagen GTI will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK. 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK has automatic transmission and 2010 Volkswagen GTI has manual transmission. 2010 Volkswagen GTI will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK | 2010 Volkswagen GTI | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | SLK | GTI |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1697 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 95 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 178 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1475 kg | 1376 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 55 L |
