2004 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1978 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 5,513 cc (12 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL (493 HP) has 444 more horse power than 1978 Volkswagen Golf. (49 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1978 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 1195 kg more than 1978 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 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 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL (800 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 719 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volkswagen Golf. (81 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volkswagen Golf. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1978 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 1978 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2004 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1978 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
Model | SL | Golf |
Year Released | 2004 | 1978 |
Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 5513 cc | 1471 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 493 HP | 49 HP |
Torque | 800 Nm | 81 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 138 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 2025 kg | 830 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 3730 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1620 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2410 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 45 L |