2004 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2005 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 3,722 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL (242 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 153 more horse power than 2005 Volkswagen Golf. (89 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2005 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 585 kg more than 2005 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, 2005 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 (350 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 220 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Volkswagen Golf. (130 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2005 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | SL | Golf |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3722 cc | 1390 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 242 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 130 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 75.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 12.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 174 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.2 seconds | 12.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1755 kg | 1170 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.6 L/100km | 6.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 55 L |
