2005 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren vs. 2001 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 5,506 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren (618 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 450 more horse power than 2001 Volkswagen Golf. (168 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren should accelerate faster than 2001 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren weights approximately 428 kg more than 2001 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 Volkswagen Golf is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Volkswagen Golf will offer significantly more control. 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren (780 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 555 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Volkswagen Golf. (225 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Volkswagen Golf. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren has automatic transmission and 2001 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 2001 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren | 2001 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | SLR McLaren | Golf |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5506 cc | 2324 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 618 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 780 Nm | 225 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 90.2 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1730 kg | 1302 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4660 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 98 L | 55 L |
