2002 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1998 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 3,724 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL (242 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 128 more horse power than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. (114 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 424 kg more than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 Volkswagen Golf is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Volkswagen Golf will offer significantly more control. 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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL (350 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. (315 Nm @ 1900 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. 1998 Volkswagen Golf has automatic transmission and 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL has manual transmission. 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Volkswagen Golf will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1998 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | SL | Golf |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3724 cc | 1982 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 242 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 315 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 192 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.2 seconds | 10.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1755 kg | 1331 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 62 L |
