2005 Volkswagen Golf vs. 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL (228 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 115 more horse power than 2005 Volkswagen Golf. (113 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2005 Volkswagen Golf.
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, 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, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL (300 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 130 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Volkswagen Golf. (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Volkswagen Golf. 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 2005 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 2005 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Volkswagen Golf | 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Golf | SL |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1896 cc | 2996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 12.7 seconds | 7.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4582 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1298 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2560 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 80 L |
