2004 Volkswagen Golf vs. 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 5,980 cc (12 cylinders), 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL (605 HP) has 490 more horse power than 2004 Volkswagen Golf. (115 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2004 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 1550 kg more than 2004 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2010 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 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL (1,000 Nm) has 835 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Volkswagen Golf. (165 Nm). This means 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Volkswagen Golf | 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Golf | SL |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1895 cc | 5980 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 605 HP |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 1000 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 82.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1280 kg | 2830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4190 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 7.6 L/100km | 13.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 9.8 L/100km | 21.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.7 L/100km | 16.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 80 L |
