2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK vs. 2003 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK (160 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 61 more horse power than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. (99 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 94 kg more than 2003 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 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 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, both vehicles can yield 240 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK | 2003 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
Model | SLK | Golf |
Year Released | 2004 | 2003 |
Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1896 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 160 HP | 99 HP |
Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 240 Nm | 240 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 82.1 mm | 79.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 95.5 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.9 seconds | 11.3 seconds |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1390 kg | 1296 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 4160 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1740 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1450 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 62 L |