2004 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2008 Volkswagen Transporter
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Transporter is newer by 4 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 5,513 cc (12 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Transporter weights approximately 319 kg more than 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL.
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, 2008 Volkswagen Transporter, 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 400 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen Transporter. (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen Transporter. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 2008 Volkswagen Transporter has manual transmission. 2008 Volkswagen Transporter 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 | 2008 Volkswagen Transporter | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | SL | Transporter |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Van |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5513 cc | 2460 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 493 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 800 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 5 seconds | 12.2 seconds |
| 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 | 2344 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1940 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 2000 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 3010 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 80 L |
